Local

Search continues for man who sexually battered woman in Winter Park apartment

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — Orange County sheriff's investigators are searching for a man they said sexually battered a woman at an apartment in the Winter Park area about 11 a.m. Friday morning.

Investigators said the attack happened at the Affinity at Winter Park apartment complex on State Road 436 just north of Aloma Avenue.

According to investigators, the man knocked at the woman's apartment door and then forced his way in.

"It's a tragedy for this individual. It's a tragedy for this community," said Capt. Angelo Nieves of the Orange County Sheriff's Office.

“It’s in broad daylight? That’s even more crazy,” said resident Libya Midgette.

Investigators described the man as Hispanic, 30-40 years old, about 5 feet 5 inches to 5 feet 6 inches tall and weighing 150-165 pounds. They said they are working on a composite sketch.
Investigators said a neighbor of the woman called 911 to report the attack. The victim was taken to a local hospital, but investigators did not elaborate on her condition.

"I just pray to God that she's OK, and that' she'll be OK. What a horrible thing," said Susan Estes, whose mother lives nearby.

Sheriff's investigators said they believe the man might have committed similar crimes before, and they believe he is a threat to the community.

They believe it was a random act, and said the victim did not know the man.

"This is a dangerous individual who we want to get off the streets," said Nieves.

Investigators said they are working to release a composite sketch.

Anyone with information about the attack is asked to call 911 or Crimeline at 800-423-TIPS (8477).