LAKE BUENA VISTA, Fla. – Police officers from around the country attending a traffic safety conference in Orlando say they were turned away from Disney Springs over clothing with law enforcement logos.
And only News 6 was there Wednesday night as Florida Lt. Governor Jay Collins showed up at Disney Springs to personally confront security over the issue.
Some officers attending the IPTM Symposium on Traffic Safety told News 6 security stopped them from entering Disney Springs because they were wearing polos and other clothing with law enforcement logos.
One officer, who asked to remain anonymous, read a statement from another officer who he says was turned away.
“We were not allowed to enter wearing law enforcement related clothing,” the officer said. “They said we could turn it inside out.”
Multiple officers at the conference reported similar experiences.
“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.