Man charged with groping Disney princess
‘The victim was immediately uncomfortable with the defendant’s touch,’ sheriffs say
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.A man has been accused of groping a woman dressed as a Disney princess while his wife sat nearby.
Brian Sherman became ”very excited” when he saw the staff member at the Walt Disney World park in Orlando, Florida, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office said in an affidavit.
Posing for photograph with the actress who was in between him and his wife, the 51-year-old said the princess was his favourite character, before putting his arm around the woman and groping her breast.
The woman has not been named and the character she plays has not been publicly revealed.
“The defendant repeated how much he loved [the character] as he placed his right arm around the victim’s shoulders," the affadavit states. “The victim was immediately uncomfortable with the defendant’s touch but was unable to move.
“The defendant continued to wrap his arm lower.”
Colleagues told detectives that the victim as not able to move as the photos were taken.
A co-worker realised the woman was uncomfortable and told the man to remove his hand.
After Mr Sherman left the room, the woman began to shake and cry and police were immediately called.
Officers used the photos taken during the incident to identify Mr Sherman, who was later arrested and charged with battery.
“Orange County Sheriff’s Office was on site and immediately stepped in, and this is now a law enforcement matter,” a Disney spokesperson said. “Everyone should feel safe at work, and we encourage cast members to come forward in any uncomfortable situation.”
Mr Sherman has been released on a $500 (£388) bail bond.
Additional reporting by agencies
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments