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Guest Points To Housekeeping in Alleged $5,000 Disney Theft

Animal Kingdom Lodge interior
Credit: Disney

While Walt Disney World Resort is celebrated as the “Most Magical Place on Earth,” it’s not immune to the occasional real-world problem. Over the years, incidents at the park have ranged from safety scares to theft, highlighting the challenges of managing a destination that attracts millions annually.

One recent controversy involves a guest’s allegation of theft at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, one of the resort’s most popular high-end Deluxe Resorts known for its breathtaking savanna views (not to mention some of the best food on Disney property).

Animal Kingdom Lodge exterior

Credit: Disney

Theft Allegations at Animal Kingdom Lodge

According to Reddit user Salt_Willingness_414, their $5,000 purse was stolen from their hotel room during their stay. They reported the issue to the hotel staff but were allegedly met with indifference.

“I had to go in person as I’m still here for work and the lobby [tried] to gaslight me to file a lost and found claim that if anyone finds it at the parks,” the guest wrote. “I said it’s not lost in the parks, it never left my room. They didn’t care [and] gave me a little slip for lost and found lol.”

Animal Kingdom Lodge interior

Credit: Disney

The guest claimed the theft occurred on the day their room was cleaned, stating, “I stayed 2 nights… the first night in late no maid the second day.. was the day of the cleaning and the third day I was out.. it’s very obvious who was the one cleaning the one day I had cleaning.” They also alleged that online reports suggest other guests have experienced similar thefts, including stolen passports.

“If nothing else, I don’t need my purse back but they should catch the thief so it doesn’t continue to happen. I narrowed it down to the exact day and time for them,” they added.

Previous Incidents of Theft at Disney World

This incident is not the first claim of theft at Disney World hotels. In August 2023, another guest accused Animal Kingdom Lodge housekeeping staff of stealing a Loungefly backpack and cash left in their room after checkout. The guest’s claims were bolstered by an account from a former Disney “Mousekeeper” who reportedly boasted about taking valuables left behind by guests.

A giraffe outside Animal Kingdom Lodge

Credit: Disney

Other reports have included car break-ins at Disney hotels and an undercover sting operation involving Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside. That operation, conducted with Orange County Police, led to the arrest of two housekeeping cast members accused of stealing from guests after multiple theft complaints.

While Disney World remains one of the safest vacation destinations, these incidents underscore the importance of vigilance. Guests are encouraged to secure valuables in in-room safes and report any suspicious activity immediately. For those who have experienced theft, sharing these accounts may help bring attention to potential issues and prompt better security measures.

Have you ever experienced or witnessed theft at a Disney resort?

About Chloe James

Chloë is a theme park addict and self-proclaimed novelty hunter. She's obsessed with all things Star Wars, loves roller coasters (but hates Pixar Pal-A-Round), and lives for Disney's next Muppets project.

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