Disney World princess left shaking and crying
November 8, 2019
A Walt Disney World guest was arrested and charged with battery for allegedly groping a princess character while taking a photo, a police report confirms.
Brian Sherman, 51, was visiting the park with his wife around 12:10 PM on Saturday when the pair went to take photos with Disney World characters at the grotto area of the Magic Kingdom.
During the photo, Sherman and his wife sat on either side of the Disney World employee, who at the time was dressed as a Disney princess. Before the photo was even taken Sherman continually told the women that the princess she was portraying “is my favorite.” The type of Disney princess that she was costumed as was not shared.
According to a police report, Sherman “placed his right arm around” her shoulder, making her “immediately uncomfortable.” As her co-worker was tending to the line, Sherman allegedly lowered his arm until he was cupping the women’s bra.
Other cast members told Sherman to pose in a different way so he wouldn’t be touching the women. However, before he moved , the man placed his hand under the woman’s costume and cupped her breast with his right forefinger and thumb ” with only the thin skin-tight fabric”between, police said.
The Disney PhotoPass photographer took the pictures, which employees used to identify the man to law enforcement.
Once Sherman left, the woman “began shaking and crying” and the grotto area was closed immediately, according to the report. The Disney princess reported the incident, which she said lasted about four seconds, and police officers were called to the scene. Sherman was arrested and charged with battery. According to reports, the woman plans to press charges and would testify in court.
A representative for Disney World said police handled the incident as it was brought to their attention.
“Orange County Sheriff’s Office was on site and immediately stepped in, and this is now a law enforcement matter. Everyone should feel safe at work, and we encourage Cast Members to come forward in any uncomfortable situation.”