Last month, a 38-year-old Massachusetts officer created a scene at Walt Disney World that led to charges. His offense? He shoved a deputy, making threats to kill staff members, all while being intoxicated and holding a child.
The charges against the Massachusetts officer include battery, battery on a law enforcement officer, and resisting an officer without violence. According to an arrest affidavit from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the incident occurred on January 30, 2024, at Epcot.
At the time of his arrest, Danforth, a detective with the Brookline Police Department, was off duty. With 14 years of service on the police force, Danforth received the Officer of the Year honor in 2021. Moreover, Danforth has proudly served the country in the United States Army with several deployments.
The Union added, “Despite Detective Danforth’s many years of outstanding service to our country and community, we also recognize that no person is perfect.” We believe that one single instance of alleged misconduct should not overshadow his otherwise exemplary service to Brookline and our country.”
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According to the arrest affidavit, deputies responded to the United Kingdom Lochside event space regarding a reported battery. Upon arrival, they met a staff member working at a private event. The staff recounted an incident where a man, later identified as Danforth, tried to enter the area.
Subsequently, Danforth allegedly returned and tried to remove some ropes. Danforth reportedly uttered threatening words as he allegedly told the man. “I’m going to f…… Kill you,” he said on two occasions before pushing the man aside.
Another staff member who saw the little drama noted that Danforth “had a crazy look in his eyes and appeared intoxicated,” all while holding a young child. Immediately, guests got the scuffle on camera and shared the footage with the Disney World convention guide. The guide then shared it with deputies.
As a result, Danforth faces accusations of pushing a deputy who tried to make contact with him. Subsequently, after the deputy regained balance, he took Danforth to the ground and apprehended him. This happened all while allegedly resisting arrest, leading to being placed in handcuffs.
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Notably, the affidavit shows that Danforth knew the deputy was a law enforcement officer. Moreover, he admitted that he should not have pushed the deputy. Additionally, Danforth claims that deputies approached him from behind before his apprehension.
Following the incident, Danforth received medical treatment for minor injuries at Orlando Heat Dr. P. Phillips Hospital. Subsequently, the hospital released him, and the officials moved him to the Booking and Release Center without further issues.
According to Orange County records, the center freed Danforth on bond; his bond was $10. Given the whole situation, Danforth is on administrative leave and will remain on leave until the conclusion of an internal investigation.
Special conditions imposed on his pre-trial release include restrictions on returning to EPCOT. Additionally, he must surrender his firearms and weapons, although he can return to Massachusetts.
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