FLORIDA SHOCKER: 17 Disney World and Universal Studios workers were among 281 people arrested in a massive undercover operation targeting suspected child predators and human trafficking.
The Polk County Sheriff's Office announced the results of a seven-day investigation called “Polk Around and Find Out II” on Friday, October 30.
Among those arrested:
🔴 13 people identified as Walt Disney World employees.
🔴 4 people identified as Universal Studios employees.
🔴 A youth football coach.
🔴 An active-duty Navy service member.
🔴 An Orange County sheriff's deputy.
Authorities reported 488 new criminal charges, including 198 felonies.
Investigators said the operation included arrests of suspected child sexual predators as well as people accused of prostitution-related offenses.
According to Sheriff Grady Judd, 31 suspects traveled to the county intending to meet a child for sexual activity.
Officials also identified 11 potential human trafficking victims and connected them with support services.
The sheriff's office released footage showing arrests of suspects accused of traveling to meet minors.
Judd said Disney cooperated with investigators and terminated employees connected to the arrests.
The allegations have raised serious questions about child safety, exploitation, and the importance of identifying potential predators in positions of trust.
The people arrested face different allegations, and an arrest does not establish guilt.
📍 Polk County, Central Florida
📅 Announced October 30, 2026
What more should employers and communities do to help protect children from exploitation?