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Disney Arrest Turns Chaotic as Police Deploy Grotesque Spit Mask on Guest

Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park
Credit: Inside the Magic

A chaotic incident at House of Blues in Disney Springs led to the arrest of Domingo Pagan, a 47-year-old Orlando resident, who now faces multiple charges after allegedly causing a disturbance. The August 31 incident is only now surfacing following a recently released affidavit from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, detailing a series of escalating confrontations.

disney springs brick signage dreams that soar

Credit: Becky Burkett

According to authorities, Pagan was reportedly intoxicated and became increasingly unruly, leading to intervention by local law enforcement. Deputies placed him in handcuffs, but when Pagan allegedly began spitting at the officers, he was fitted with a spit mask for everyone’s safety.

The arrest report recounts, “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.” As deputies removed the mask briefly to ensure Pagan’s well-being, he allegedly spat on an officer’s arm, necessitating the reapplication of the spit mask.

Pagan faces serious charges, including two counts of battery on a law enforcement officer and resisting an officer with violence, both of which are third-degree felonies. Additionally, he is charged with disorderly intoxication, a second-degree misdemeanor. He has entered a plea of not guilty and is set to appear in court for trial on January 21, 2025.

A Pattern of Disorderly Behavior? Other Arrests at Disney Springs

A large crowd of people standing in line at an outdoor event. They are dressed in casual clothing, and some are wearing jackets and hoodies. Palm trees and colorful structures are visible in the background, suggesting a theme park or public attraction.

Credit: @just_ask_danny on X

Just weeks before Pagan’s arrest, another guest incident at Disney Springs drew attention. On August 9, 38-year-old Ryan Tomasko was reportedly involved in a confrontation with law enforcement at the shopping and dining hub. Witnesses described Tomasko as disorderly, refusing to comply with deputies as he was escorted from the venue. According to the report, he locked his legs to avoid being moved, and held onto deputies’ arms, making the scene particularly challenging for officers.

This disturbance unfolded near a large crowd gathered to watch Disney Springs’ popular drone show, Disney Dreams That Soar. Tomasko now faces charges of trespassing, disorderly intoxication, and resisting an officer without violence.

Then, on October 7, a third arrest occurred within Walt Disney World, this time involving a Texas man named Andrew Dixon. Dixon, 35, was accused of pushing a stroller—with his young child inside—into a Disney cast member in an altercation near Cinderella Castle. The cast member reported that Dixon used the stroller and his shoulder to push past her after she directed him and his family away from a closed area near the castle just before the nightly fireworks display.

A large hot air balloon with intricate patterns is tethered near a calm waterfront at sunset. Colorful buildings and a whimsical structure with towers and sails, reminiscent of Alex and Ani Disney Springs, are in the background under a vibrant sky transitioning from orange to deep blue.

Credit: Disney

A witness corroborated the account, noting that Dixon allegedly pushed past the cast member and later made a crude gesture as he walked away. Dixon, however, denies any wrongdoing, claiming he was simply navigating a crowded area. His attorneys are seeking Disney surveillance footage, which they believe will prove his innocence.

Understanding Disney’s Code of Conduct: Rules Every Guest Should Know

Disney World with cloudy skies above, indicative of a storm or hurricane

Credit: Ed Aguila, Inside the Magic

These recent incidents serve as a reminder that Disney maintains a strict code of conduct to ensure a safe, enjoyable environment for all visitors. Here are key rules that guests should be aware of, including actions that could lead to expulsion:

1. Prohibited Items

Disney’s security screenings are rigorous. Weapons, illegal substances, large signs or banners, and drones are among the items prohibited within the park. Guests are also barred from bringing coolers or other large containers to avoid potential safety issues.

2. Disorderly or Disruptive Conduct

Any disruptive or disorderly behavior is strictly prohibited. Disney reserves the right to remove guests displaying excessive aggression, harassment, or other forms of disruptive conduct, including public intoxication.

3. Rules on Costumes and Attire

While Disney encourages children to dress as their favorite characters, guests over 14 are restricted from wearing costumes that could cause confusion with official cast members. The exception to this rule is during special events, such as Halloween celebrations, when costume guidelines are temporarily relaxed.

4. Alcohol-Related Misbehavior

In specific park areas, guests can purchase alcohol. However, overconsumption, leading to disruptive or dangerous behavior, will lead to immediate intervention by park staff and may result in ejection from the premises.

5. Unauthorized Filming and Photography

While guests are encouraged to capture memories, restrictions apply in certain areas. Large recording equipment, drones, and obstructive setups are not allowed. Non-compliance could result in security intervention or removal.

6. Queue Jumping and Line Etiquette

Disney has strict policies on line behavior to ensure fairness. Line cutting or reserving spots for others is strictly enforced, with violators often escorted out of the attraction line or, in severe cases, from the park itself.

7. Respect for Cast Members

Disney’s cast members work to create a safe and pleasant environment. Verbal or physical harassment of cast members is taken seriously, and any form of aggression toward staff will lead to expulsion from the park and, in some cases, legal action.

8. Following Safety Instructions

To maintain a safe experience, guests must follow posted rules and cast member instructions. Disregarding these rules, such as failing to remain seated on a ride or tampering with safety restraints, could lead to immediate removal from the attraction or park.

As Disney welcomes millions of visitors each year, these rules help ensure a balanced, enjoyable environment for everyone. While recent incidents may seem unusual, Disney’s commitment to guest safety and satisfaction remains steadfast. For visitors planning a trip, adhering to these guidelines can make all the difference in creating a magical Disney experience.

Have you ever witnessed guests acting out while at the Disney Parks? 

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.

One comment

  1. I had one guy start cussing at me, and acting like he wanted to fight. According to him I was blocking his path during the closing show at Magic Kingdom. I said to him “Are you sure you want to show your daughter, how childish and unruly you can be? Not to mention, you’ll get your whole family banned from the parks and go to jail. Especially when, all you had to do is act like a civilized human and say excuse me.” He looked his daughter, then to his wife, who was giving him the stink eye. Then he apologized and went on his way. To all you Karens out there, take note that this was a family man. I on the other hand am one of those childless Disney adults. Are you sure, its people like me, who are always the problem?

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