Domestic battery arrest at EPCOT on New Year’s Eve. While the charge was routine, Disney Investigations’ video evidence played a critical role in establishing probable cause after the victim declined to prosecute.
What happened
On the evening of December 31, 2025, Orange County deputies responded to a reported battery at EPCOT, located at 200 Epcot Center Drive. The incident, initially dispatched as a battery, was later determined to be domestic in nature.
Off-duty deputies working the park had already secured Renee inside the security office prior to law enforcement’s arrival. According to the report, Disney Investigations had obtained and preserved video of the altercation, footage that became central to the case.
Role of Disney Investigations
Inside the security office, deputies reviewed recorded footage provided by Disney investigators. The video reportedly shows Renee running up to Andrew and initiating physical contact. Investigators’ footage captures repeated shoves to the chest and neck area, along with swinging motions toward Andrew’s head. Throughout the encounter, Andrew is seen attempting to disengage and walk away.
This documentation, captured and maintained by Disney Investigations, established a clear sequence of events and materially supported the probable cause determination, despite the absence of a sworn victim statement.
Statements and cooperation
Deputies attempted to obtain a sworn written statement from Andrew, who declined to participate further in the domestic violence paperwork process. He stated only that a disagreement occurred with his wife and that he believed the situation was being mishandled. He confirmed the two reside together. Andrew also declined to prosecute or testify, though he was provided a Victims’ Rights pamphlet.
Renee denied that any physical altercation occurred inside the park and did not offer additional information relevant to the investigation.
Arrest and disposition
Based on the totality of the evidence, including the Disney Investigations video, deputies determined there was probable cause to charge Renee with Battery (Domestic Violence). Disney Security issued a formal trespass warning on scene. Renee was then transported to the Orange County Booking and Release Center without incident.
Why the investigative detail matters
While the arrest itself follows a standard domestic battery framework, this case underscores the operational role Disney Investigations play inside the parks. Their ability to quickly secure video evidence, coordinate with off-duty deputies, and preserve footage can decisively shape outcomes, particularly when a victim is unwilling to provide a statement.
