In an unexpected turn of events at Lake Buena Vista, Florida, police officers attending a national traffic safety conference in Orlando found themselves unable to access Disney Springs. The reason? Their attire featured logos associated with law enforcement.
News 6 was on the scene Wednesday night as Florida’s Lt. Governor Jay Collins arrived at Disney Springs to address security personnel regarding the situation.
The officers, who were part of the IPTM Symposium on Traffic Safety, shared with News 6 that security at Disney Springs denied them entry because they wore polos and other garments displaying law enforcement insignias.
One officer, choosing to remain anonymous, relayed a statement from a fellow officer who experienced the same issue.
“We were told that entry was not permitted for those wearing clothing with law enforcement logos,” the officer recounted. “They suggested we turn our shirts inside out.”
Numerous officers attending the conference reported encountering similar difficulties.
“We’re here for a conference,” another officer said. “We want to go enjoy the time that we have to meet new law enforcement officers from around the country.”
Messages later sent to conference attendees warned officers to wear plain clothes if they wanted to visit Disney Springs.
News 6 staff had been in touch with Disney representatives throughout Thursday to understand what happened.
Disney told News 6 security was too conservative in deciding whether the clothing could confuse guests.
Disney also said the company apologized and resolved the situation.
Only News 6 was there Wednesday night as Collins arrived at Disney Springs and spoke with security.
Collins called the situation a misunderstanding of policy.
“They will be able to wear a polo shirt appropriately when they walk in,” Collins told News 6. “They won’t be rolled back.”
Thursday, conference organizers sent out another message telling attendees the issue had been resolved.
Still, some officers told News 6 they are no longer interested in visiting Disney property.
Disney said it looks forward to welcoming those guests in the future.
