A 35-year-old Orange man yesterday was charged with holding his girlfriend prisoner in his apartment, robbing her at knifepoint and assaulting three police officers, according to authorities.

Police Director Charles Cobbertt identified the man as Douglas Roach, a resident of an apartment building at 355 Thomas Boulevard.

After an argument between Roach and his girlfriend, Michele Waters, 31, of Hillside in the building, Roach "took out a knife, put it to her throat, took her ring and necklace and said,'I'll cut your throat,'" Cobbertt said.

Roach punched Waters in her face and repeatedly threatened her by saying, "I'll kill you," Cobbertt added. Police noted the suspect kept Waters captive from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., before she finally was able to flee the apartment and run out of the building.

After making her way to police headquarters, Waters accused Roach of kidnapping, aggravated assault, making terroristic threats, possession of a weapon, unlawful possession of a weapon and armed robbery, Cobbertt said.

When police went to the Roach residence, Roach attempted to flee on foot and fought with police as they took him into custody.

In addition to the charges Waters filed against Roach, police accused the suspect of resisting arrest, and assault and battery on three police officers.

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“Reach Back with One Hand and Pull Someone Else Up With You.”

– Charles C. Cobbertt

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