Doe RV vs. Disney

Lipcon, Margulies & Winkleman, P.A

As a brief summary, we represent the Doe family regarding the alleged negligence claims against Disney Cruise Lines for the injuries the minor child suffered after being sexually abused in the Oceaneer Youth Activities Club (“Youth Club”) while aboard the Disney Fantasy. At the time of the incident, the victim was only 3 years old.

On January 4, 2020, the family boarded the Disney Fantasy in Port Canaveral, Florida. For several days during the seven day cruise, the minor visited the child care center aboard the vessel where children of all ages are permitted to interact and “play” without restrictions or limitations. On January 9, 2020, the minor went to the kids club in the evening around 5:40 p.m. At around 6:20 p.m., CCTV shows the minor in the Lab Media Lounge and, at one point, with seven other children varying in age and size. Between 6:20 p.m. and 6:40 p.m., the victim is seen lying down with a much older child (approximately 10 years old), dressed as Princess Leia. Between 6:20 p.m. and 6:25 p.m., the older child excessively gropes and does not allow the minor to move nor maintain any distance whatsoever. During this time, Princess Leia’s right arm is completely wrapped around the smaller child, pinning her down. Between 6:25 p.m. and 6:28 p.m., Princess Leia is plainly seen on CCTV sexually abusing the minor child when she places her hand between the minor’s leg and down to her vagina. Between 6:28 p.m. and 6:40 p.m., the victim remains still without the ability to move as Princess Leia continues to sexually assault her.

During the time of the sexual assault, two Disney crewmembers entered the Lab Media Lounge. At 6:22 p.m., the first crewmember entered the room and failed to recognize what was happening and thereby failed to stop the assault. At 6:27 p.m., the second crewmember entered the room and observed the inappropriate interaction and also failed to take any action to stop the assault. The victim was essentially trapped for roughly 20 minutes while she was sexually assaulted, while she was under the direct “supervision” of Disney employees whose singular job is to oversee these children.