A medical emergency turned legal ordeal for an elderly visitor at Disney World last month, highlighting questions over policy enforcement when health concerns come into play.
Related: Disney Cast Member Arrested During Massive Human Trafficking Operation
Elderly Visitor’s Arrest at Disney World Sparks Concerns Over Policy and Medical Needs
The arrest of 80-year-old Fernando Tadeo Bonnet at Disney’s Transportation and Ticket Center has prompted discussions about balancing public safety regulations with guest accommodations, particularly for those with urgent medical needs.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office reported that Bonnet, a tourist from Argentina with severe urinary incontinence, asked a Disney Cast Member around 7:15 p.m. for directions to the nearest restroom. Unable to reach it in time, he reportedly attempted to discreetly relieve himself in nearby bushes by the security office. Disney employees who witnessed the incident alerted security, setting off a chain of events that led to Bonnet’s arrest for public exposure.
One Cast Member stated they felt “shocked and uncomfortable” upon seeing Bonnet’s actions, while another reported attempting to guide him toward the restroom when he appeared to lose control. As a Disney security guard approached and instructed Bonnet to stop, both in English and Spanish, there seemed to be confusion. Bonnet, a Spanish speaker, may not have fully understood the guard’s commands, according to statements in the arrest report. His attorney later emphasized the language barrier as a crucial factor in the incident.
Related: Woman Admits to Getting Arrested at Disney World to Get Back at Boyfriend
Arrested for ‘Exposing Sexual Organs’
Soon after, law enforcement arrived, arresting Bonnet on a charge of public exposure, citing that he had allegedly exposed himself. Following the arrest, Disney issued a trespass warning, barring Bonnet from Disney property and ending his family’s vacation early. Though Bonnet has since returned to Argentina, the arrest has sparked debate over how medical emergencies are handled at major tourist destinations like Disney World.
Bonnet’s attorney, Alain Rivas, argued that his client’s actions were neither intentional nor malicious. “This incident was very upsetting for Mr. Bonnet and his family,” Rivas said. “Given his age, health condition, and limited English proficiency, it’s clear this was a medical emergency, not a criminal act.” Rivas presented medical documentation confirming Bonnet’s incontinence, stressing that his client’s actions were due to a health need, not indecent behavior.
Initially, two of the three Cast Members involved opted to press charges. However, on Thursday, the same day Rivas updated WDW News Today, the state attorney’s office dropped the charges, citing a lack of criminal intent and Bonnet’s medical circumstances. Though this allowed Bonnet to avoid further legal consequences, the episode underscores challenges some guests face in navigating policy enforcement in situations of medical urgency.
Related: Mother Threatens to Sue Disneyland After Getting Arrested and Kicked From Theme Park
Disney Guests Must Adhere to All Rules, Despite Medical Needs
The incident highlights the strict enforcement of public exposure laws at major tourist destinations like Disney World, where community standards are upheld diligently. Legal experts note that even when exposure is accidental, law enforcement typically follows guidelines intended to protect public decency. Bonnet’s case has sparked conversation about accessibility and support for guests with medical needs, especially in venues where immediate restroom access may be challenging.
Disney World maintains strict codes of conduct to foster a family-friendly atmosphere, with clear policies on behavior and attire. While Cast Members are trained to assist and accommodate guests, they are also responsible for enforcing park policies. In Bonnet’s case, Cast Members who reported the incident likely felt obligated to adhere to Disney’s guidelines.
To better support guests with medical needs, Disney parks offer resources such as wheelchair rentals, accessible restrooms, and service animal accommodations. Disney’s Guest Services can provide information on these options, which may help guests avoid situations like Bonnet’s.