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EPCOT Guest Arrested and Banned for Life After Alleged Assault at Mirabel Photo Line

The case spotlights Disney's zero‑tolerance policy toward guest misconduct.

Overview

  • Diego Rodriguez, arrested April 21 at EPCOT, faces a battery charge and a lifetime trespass from Walt Disney World.
  • Reports say his family tried to cut the photo line for Mirabel, the child ran toward the performer, and staff said the character was only taking pictures, not signing books.
  • Rodriguez allegedly grabbed and shook the character attendant’s arm and then lunged toward Mirabel while shouting, “Why can everyone take a picture but us?”
  • Disney security intervened, and Orange County Sheriff’s deputies arrested him and took him to the county jail, after which he received a permanent ban from Disney property.
  • Walt Disney World rules prohibit line‑jumping and abusive behavior toward staff, and outlets report no immediate public comments from the sheriff’s office or Disney.