Former Massachusetts Officer of the Year arrested for altercation at Disney World

A police detective from Massachusetts, Duane Danforth, who was previously honored as the Officer of the Year, was arrested at Walt Disney World for an altercation in which he allegedly shoved a deputy and threatened staff members while intoxicated and holding a child. The incident took place on January 30 at Epcot, and Danforth has been charged with battery, battery on a law enforcement officer, and resisting an officer without violence.

Off-Duty altercation at Epcot

Reports from the Orange County Sheriff's Office state that the altercation occurred at the United Kingdom Lochside event space in Epcot. According to witnesses, Danforth attempted to enter a restricted area and, after being told to go around, he tried to remove some ropes blocking his way. Subsequently, he allegedly threatened staff members, pushing one and verbally threatening to kill them. Witnesses also observed him holding a young girl while appearing intoxicated and exhibiting aggressive behavior.

Arrest and charges

Deputies arrived at the scene and confronted Danforth, who is reported to have pushed a deputy during the interaction. Video footage of the incident was captured by Epcot guests and shared with Disney World convention guide coordinators, who then provided it to deputies. Danforth was eventually subdued by deputies and taken into custody. He was charged with battery, battery on a law enforcement officer, and resisting an officer without violence.

Law enforcement response and consequences

The Brookline Police Department's police chief confirmed that Danforth, who has been with the department for 14 years, was off-duty at the time of the incident. The officer has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation. Despite being honored as Officer of the Year in 2021, Danforth's alleged actions at Disney World have resulted in severe consequences for his law enforcement career.

Uncertain future

As the investigation unfolds, Danforth's career and reputation hang in the balance. The outcome of the internal investigation will determine the next steps for the decorated officer, who now faces serious charges and potential professional repercussions. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges that law enforcement agencies face in managing the conduct of their officers, both on and off-duty, and the impact such incidents can have on public trust and the department's integrity.