Disney Cast Members Arrested in Human Trafficking Bust

It’s been a terrible year for The Walt Disney Company. And this developing story about Disney cast member arrests puts another blemish on the entertainment giant.

Walt Disney World Resort

Many travel to the Walt Disney World Resort for a fun, family-friendly vacation. Not many who visit the “Most Magical Place on Earth” expect to be confronted or find themselves in the center of illegal activity.

But Polk County, located in central Florida, has been identified as a hot spot for human trafficking activities.

Related: Guest Sexually Assaults Cast Member, Gets Arrested

Due to its proximity to metro areas and tourist destinations like Orlando and Tampa, it has become a prime location for traffickers to find and exploit individuals. Recognizing this troubling trend, Sheriff Grady Judd has aggressively tried to combat this issue.

Human Trafficking Horror

Earlier this week, there was a bust in Polk County that resulted in the arrest of 219 individuals. Among those arrested were three Disney cast members and a local high school teacher.

Led by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and its Sheriff Grady Judd, the arrests were the end result of a week-long undercover sting operation. The series of arrests included charges of solicitation, aiding and abetting illegal prostitution, and transporting the sex workers. According to the sheriff, out of the 119 prostitutes that were involved, as many as 21 are believed to be victims of human trafficking.

Related: Man Arrested For Child Abuse at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Among the 219 people arrested, law enforcement discovered 35 of them were in the United States illegally, 42 had illegal drugs, and two had firearms.

Disney Cast Member Arrests

The Disney cast members involved in the arrest were a security guard, custodian, and training coordinator.

“What would an op be if we didn’t arrest someone employed by Disney?” said Sheriff Judd.

Walt Disney World Resort makes incredible efforts to meticulously inspect rides for safety, perform security checks at every theme park entrance, and enforce strict guest behavior and apparel rules.

Related: Man Arrested for Disturbing Behavior on Popular Disney World Ride

But despite Walt Disney World Resort’s attempt to protect its guests and employees, it is impossible to stop every crime.

Local news outlets have also reported that in addition to the three Disney cast members, there was another individual arrested for prostitution who worked for at the Swan Hotel, which is located on Disney property.

Hopefully, the victims who have been taken advantage of will get the help needed.

Related: Disturbing Allegations Circle CEO of Popular Disney Travel Agency

Although Walt Disney World Resort has not released an official statement, it’s probably safe to assume they condemn the actions and will cut ties with the arrested cast members. We will make every attempt to keep our readers up to date if more information comes out.