Cameron Steel
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13 Disney World Employees Among 281 Suspects Arrested
The Polk County Sheriff’s Office reported a significant joint operation that led to the arrest of individuals suspected of traveling to meet minors for illegal sexual activities, alongside those allegedly involved in human trafficking. Sheriff Grady Judd announced that 281 suspects were apprehended within a week, which included 13 employees from Disney and four from Universal Studios. Authorities revealed that 31 of these suspects had traveled to Polk County with the intention of engaging in sexual acts with a minor.
In a press conference held on Friday, Sheriff Judd emphasized the gravity of the operation aimed at identifying and detaining those who prey on children. “It is extremely disturbing when we encounter child predators eager to engage in sexual acts with minors. This is why we conduct these undercover operations,” he stated.
Sheriff Shares Further Insights On Arrested Individuals
Sheriff Judd provided more information about those arrested, indicating that 32 of the suspects were undocumented immigrants, with 16 now in the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. 24 suspects were found to have brought firearms to their intended meetings, while nine were on probation at the time of their arrests.
Among those highlighted by the sheriff was the head coach of the Davenport Titans youth basketball team in Florida. This individual, who coaches children aged 11 to 14, believed he was meeting a 14-year-old girl. Notably, another suspect was identified as being on active duty with the U.S. Navy at the time.
Former Mickey Mouse Performer Among Those Arrested, Sheriff Confirms
Sheriff Judd also mentioned the arrest of a former Disney employee who had worked as a performer in the Mickey Mouse costume. The sheriff alleged that this individual had a diaper fetish and was found in possession of two backpacks filled with diapers. In a separate case, another Disney employee was found with their work uniform in their vehicle when they allegedly traveled to meet an undercover detective posing as a 13-year-old boy.
Regarding the employees connected to the theme parks, Sheriff Judd noted that Disney cooperated fully with investigators and confirmed that all involved employees were terminated. The arrests have sparked renewed scrutiny of the operation, with authorities reiterating their commitment to identifying individuals accused of targeting children.
Clara Hastings
