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Spit Mask Warning Issued By Disney Police, Irate Guest Used as Example

Police Officer
Credit: Inside the Magic

A recent incident at the House of Blues Orlando in Disney Springs led to the arrest of Domingo Pagan, a 47-year-old resident of Orlando, after he allegedly caused a disturbance at the popular venue.

Disney Springs

Credit: Disney Dining

The August 31 incident, detailed in an arrest affidavit from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, unfolded after Pagan, reportedly intoxicated, became increasingly disruptive, prompting deputies to step in.

The affidavit explains that after authorities handcuffed Pagan, they applied a spit mask when he began spitting at officers. “After being secured in handcuffs, a spit mask was subsequently placed on Pagan for his and officers’ safety. Pagan was searched at the front of my vehicle and briefly became unresponsive,” the deputy’s report noted. When the mask was briefly removed due to concerns he might vomit, Pagan reportedly spat directly at an officer’s arm, prompting deputies to reapply the mask.

A colorful lakeside building with a whimsical design stands near the water, with people walking nearby. A playful, green sea serpent sculpture with multiple loops appears to float in the lake, adding a fun and imaginative touch to the scene.

Credit: Flickr, Peter Lee

Pagan now faces several charges, including two counts of battery on a law enforcement officer and resisting an officer with violence, both of which are third-degree felonies. He also faces a misdemeanor charge of disorderly intoxication. Represented by the Public Defender’s Office, Pagan has entered a plea of not guilty and is set to appear in court on January 21, 2025.

Recent Incidents at Disney Springs and Walt Disney World Spark Concerns Over Guest Behavior

A busy theme park scene with numerous visitors walking along a brightly colored street lined with shops. At the end of the street stands a large, iconic castle with pointed towers. Trees and decorations add to the festive atmosphere under a sunny, blue sky.

Credit: Lee Bailey / Flickr

This wasn’t an isolated incident at Disney Springs.

Earlier in August, 38-year-old Ryan Tomasko was arrested after reportedly causing a scene at Disney Springs’ bustling shopping and dining area. Witnesses stated that Tomasko resisted deputies, even locking his legs and clutching their arms as they attempted to escort him from the venue. The incident unfolded in front of a large crowd, who had gathered to enjoy the popular outdoor drone show, Disney Dreams That Soar, adding to the disruption.

In another high-profile incident on October 7, a Texas man, Andrew Dixon, allegedly pushed a stroller—with his child inside—into a Disney cast member near Cinderella Castle. According to the cast member, Dixon used the stroller and his shoulder to push past her after she redirected him and his family from a closed area before the nightly fireworks display.

A witness claimed to have seen Dixon push the cast member and make an offensive gesture as he walked away. Dixon has denied these allegations, insisting that he was simply navigating a crowded area and suggesting that surveillance footage could clear his name.

Disney’s Code of Conduct: Understanding the Rules for a Safe Visit

Walt Disney World entrance

Credit: Inside the Magic

These incidents underscore Disney’s stringent code of conduct, designed to keep the parks safe, enjoyable, and family-friendly. Disney’s policies cover a wide range of behaviors and items, ensuring that every guest has a memorable experience without compromising safety.

For starters, Disney conducts thorough bag checks to prevent prohibited items such as weapons, illegal substances, and drones from entering the park. Guests are also restricted from bringing large coolers and certain other items that could disrupt the flow of crowds or compromise security. Disney is committed to upholding a welcoming environment, but in doing so, they’ve implemented rules that restrict certain activities for guest safety.

Alcohol is available in specific areas within Disney parks, but guests are expected to consume responsibly. Over-intoxicated guests who become disorderly, aggressive, or dangerous to others will face intervention and possible removal from the park. For those planning to drink, Disney recommends doing so with discretion to avoid disturbing other guests.

Photography and filming are generally encouraged, but guests should be aware that some areas and attractions have restrictions. Large or obstructive equipment, such as professional-grade tripods or drones, is prohibited, and any unauthorized or disruptive filming could lead to security intervention. Disney’s intent is to allow visitors to capture memories while keeping pathways clear and secure for everyone.

Distant view of a theme park with a focus on a grand Disney castle surrounded by lush greenery. A body of water is in the foreground, flanked by whimsical road signs and various buildings, creating an enchanting atmosphere under a clear blue sky.

Credit: Nicholas Fuentes on Unsplash

Disney also has specific guidelines regarding attire. Children are welcome to dress up as their favorite characters, but adult guests over the age of 14 are generally restricted from wearing costumes that could be mistaken for official Disney cast member attire. This rule helps prevent confusion among younger guests and ensures that cast members can be easily identified. Exceptions to this rule apply during special events like Halloween, when the park relaxes its costume policy.

Disney places high importance online etiquette. Cutting in line or reserving spots for others is strictly prohibited. With thousands of guests each day, Disney enforces its queue policies rigorously to maintain fairness and respect among guests. Those who violate these policies may be escorted out of the line or, in more severe cases, from the park entirely.

Finally, Disney expects guests to show respect toward cast members. Harassment, whether physical or verbal, is grounds for immediate removal and, in some cases, legal action. Cast members are trained to ensure a smooth and safe experience for everyone, and Disney’s commitment to staff safety remains a top priority. Failure to comply with safety instructions on rides, such as standing up or tampering with safety restraints, is also taken seriously, as such behavior can jeopardize guest safety.

For those planning to visit Disney parks, adhering to these rules will help ensure a pleasant experience, avoiding the kinds of disturbances that have recently made headlines. Disney’s code of conduct is in place to create a positive environment for all visitors, allowing guests to enjoy the magic of the parks without incident.

Have you noticed an incline on guests breaking the rules at Walt Disney World? 

About Alessia Dunn

Orlando theme park lover who loves thrills and theming, with a side of entertainment. You can often catch me at Disney or Universal sipping a cocktail, or crying during Happily Ever After or Fantasmic.

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