Police release sketch of man wanted for violent robbery

ORLANDO, Fla. — A woman who works at a boutique in the Milk District area of downtown Orlando told Channel 9 she fought an attacker during a robbery of the store Friday evening.

Orlando police have released a composite sketch of the man who robbed the Etoile Boutique on Robinson Street around 6 p.m.

The boutique employee, Michelle Velez, said she was at work when the man came into the store and asked about a pair of shoes.

"We just started small talking," said Velez.

But the victim said when she walked to a back room, the robber followed her.

"He came behind me and said, 'Listen,' and he had a red and black backpack and he told me he had a gun in it, and to empty the register or he was going to shoot me," said Velez.

The employee said she handed over cash, but the man didn't leave right away.

"He broke my purse strap, took the strap, wrapped my arms in it," Velez said. "And then he tied my legs."

Velez said she attempted to get out of the store, but the man stopped her and a struggle ensued.

"I grabbed the knob, he pushed me over. I fell back here, this is where I think he hit his head," said Velez.

The victim was able to crawl out of the front door, while the attacker fled through the back of the business, police said.

"This shouldn't be happening to women or anybody," said Velez.

Anyone with information about the boutique robbery is asked to contact the Orlando Police Department.

WFTV