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Disney Fans Face Felony Charges After Rivers of America Backlash Turns Ugly

The recent closure of the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island at Magic Kingdom Park has led to a wave of frustration among Disney guests, but some individuals have crossed a line, sending threatening emails to Disney employees. A growing number of Disney fans, upset over the closure, have turned to social media and email to express their dissatisfaction. However, some of these messages have taken a much more dangerous turn, raising legal concerns.

tom sawyer island, magic kingdom
Credit: Disney

Guests Fight Back Against Closure

One concerned Reddit user issued a warning to others, addressing the troubling behavior:

“PSA about TSI and the ROA’s closure NSFM: I know a lot of emotions are high tonight since it’s the closure of the river and Tom Sawyer Island. While people are entitled to their opinions and feelings, it has come to my attention that some people in the Disney community have been sending very threatening emails to imagineers, customer service members, and Disney execs. Please note that email harassment is a crime and a felony offense.”

The warning continued, with the Reddit user clarifying that such behavior could result in serious legal consequences, noting that “email harassment could be classified as either a misdemeanor or felony depending on the nature of the threats and any prior convictions.” The post urged fans to express their frustrations in a manner that doesn’t compromise safety or lead to criminal charges.

PSA about TSI and the ROA’s closure
byu/TheGamerOfKnowledge inWaltDisneyWorld

Disappointment Turns to Anger

The closure of the Rivers of America and Tom Sawyer Island has certainly left many Disney fans disappointed, but the escalation to threatening behavior highlights a concerning shift in how some guests are coping with change. The Reddit post serves as a reminder that while it’s completely valid to express dissatisfaction, crossing into harassment or threats is not only harmful but illegal.

As Disney has not publicly addressed the issue yet, guests are reminded that respecting the safety and dignity of Disney employees is paramount. Threatening or harassing messages directed at Imagineers, customer service representatives, or executives may lead to serious repercussions.

Mark Twain on the Rivers of America at Disney World.
Credit: Disney

In response to this troubling behavior, the Disney community is being encouraged to remain respectful when voicing concerns or frustration. As the parks continue to evolve, it’s important for fans to voice their opinions constructively, ensuring a healthy, productive conversation about changes to beloved attractions.

Disney continues to prioritize the safety and well-being of both guests and employees, and respectful communication will ensure that the magic of the parks endures. For now, Disney enthusiasts are urged to maintain civility and remember that their voice is stronger when it’s heard in a respectful and thoughtful manner.

Eva Miller

Eva was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon but has since relocated and lives in New York City. Since she was young, Eva has loved to perform in musicals, especially Disney ones! Through performing, Disney’s music became the soundtrack of her childhood. Today, Eva loves to write about all the exciting happenings for the Walt Disney Company. In her free time, Eva loves to travel, spend time in nature, and go to Broadway shows. Her favorite Disney movie is 'Lilo and Stitch,' and her favorite Park is Disney's Animal Kingdom.

One Comment

  1. I’m baffled by people’s incivility, particularly involving a magical place.

    Disney Parks have ALWAYS evolved. I’m glad it’s not the same park I visited in 1963, nor the one I visited in 1990. If they remained the same all the parks would have gone outta business by now.

    Yeah, we lose some of our favorite places on occasion but that makes way for new memories. Btw, those complaining about Frontierland should have seen it at its opening in ’55. The films are a hoot. Look em up!

    Our politics, calling neighbors enemies for thinking or looking different or “other” has incubated this hate. The internet as made us feel anonymous, therefore able to say anything.

    That’s what needs to change, more than any rides or Lands…

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