<body><div><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=3vWd4p_0wF0Zj4f00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=3vWd4p_0wF0Zj4f00" width="620" height="330" ></figure><p>On January 30, an altercation unfolded at EPCOT’s United Kingdom Pavilion involving Brookline, Massachusetts police detective Duane Danforth. This incident reportedly began when a cast member informed Danforth that he could not enter a private event. Witnesses claimed that Danforth, appearing intoxicated, exhibited belligerent behavior, refusing to comply with the instructions provided by the cast member.</p><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=47W6by_0wF0Zj4f00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=47W6by_0wF0Zj4f00" width="1200" height="600" ><figcaption>Credit: Disney</figcaption></figure><p>The situation escalated when Danforth allegedly threatened Disney security personnel and proceeded to push past them into the event space, all while carrying a young girl.</p><p>Witness accounts from bystanders corroborated that Danforth’s conduct was aggressive. Those present described a heated atmosphere where the actions of the cast members and security staff were primarily defensive in nature. According to statements made by the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, the detective’s refusal to leave and aggressive demeanor prompted immediate security measures.</p><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=3svaUV_0wF0Zj4f00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=3svaUV_0wF0Zj4f00" width="1200" height="900" ><figcaption>World Showcase players EPCOT / Credit: Honorary World Showcase Players Facebook</figcaption></figure><h2>Charges and Legal Proceedings</h2><p>In the immediate aftermath, Detective Danforth was arrested and charged with battery and resisting arrest. The charges stemmed from allegations that he struck two EPCOT cast members and a police officer during the confrontation. Initial reports indicated that Danforth’s actions were not just reckless but could be classified as criminal due to the context of his behavior.</p><p>However, the Orange County prosecutor’s office has since dropped all charges against him. The decision not to proceed with legal action was influenced by various factors, including Danforth’s established standing in the community, his subsequent entrance into a residential program aimed at addressing personal issues, and additional mitigating circumstances. These considerations led the prosecutor’s office to conclude that further legal actions were unwarranted.</p><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=31wl6N_0wF0Zj4f00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=31wl6N_0wF0Zj4f00" width="1200" height="600" ><figcaption>Credit: Flickr</figcaption></figure><h2>Disciplinary Actions Taken</h2><p>As a result of the investigation and the incident in question, the Brookline Police Department initiated disciplinary measures against Detective Danforth. He received a 30-day suspension that includes 12 days served immediately, with the remaining time held in abeyance pending any further incidents.</p><p>Deputy Superintendent Paul Campbell noted that the length of the suspension was determined after a thorough review of the circumstances surrounding the altercation and Danforth’s history within the department. The decision acknowledges his previous commendable service record, having been awarded “Police Officer of the Year” in 2021.</p><p>However, his suspension will be served without pay, signaling the department’s recognition of the gravity of his actions.</p><figure><img src="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?type=thumbnail_580x000&amp;url=4SRhRX_0wF0Zj4f00" alt="https://img.particlenews.com/image.php?url=4SRhRX_0wF0Zj4f00" width="1200" height="600" ><figcaption>Credit: Inside the Magic</figcaption></figure><h2>Future Implications for Danforth</h2><p>For Detective Danforth to return to his position within the Brookline Police Department, several steps must be taken in compliance with departmental regulations. He must first undergo a review by the POST Commission, an agency in Massachusetts responsible for certifying police officers. Until this review is complete, Danforth’s certification remains suspended.</p><p>The implications of this incident extend beyond temporary suspension. His behavior at EPCOT resulted in legal scrutiny and placed a spotlight on his conduct as a law enforcement officer. The POST Commission’s evaluation will consider Danforth’s service history, including his exemplary record over 14 years with the department and his community standing.</p><p>Depending on the outcome of this review, his future in law enforcement could be significantly affected, shaping both his career and the perceptions of public safety within the Brookline community.</p></div></body>

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NewsBreak

He Hit a Cast Member, but Charges Were Just Dropped

On January 30, an altercation unfolded at EPCOT’s United Kingdom Pavilion involving Brookline, Massachusetts police detective Duane Danforth. This incident reportedly began when a cast member informed Danforth that he could not enter a private event. Witnesses claimed that Danforth, appearing intoxicated, exhibited belligerent behavior, refusing to comply with the instructions provided by the cast member.