Theft at Universal’s Epic Universe escalates fast 🚨 Suspect accused of: 🛍️ Theft 💥 Robbery after using force 👮♂️ Assault on deputy ⛓️ Violent resistance
ORLANDO, Fla. — What began as a routine shoplifting incident at Universal Orlando Resort escalated into a violent confrontation, resulting in multiple felony charges after a suspect allegedly used force against both employees and deputies.
According to an Orange County Sheriff’s Office arrest report, the incident occurred April 29, 2026, at approximately 3:56 p.m. in the Epic Universe guest parking area.
From Shoplifting to Robbery
Investigators say a loss prevention employee working undercover observed the suspect taking merchandise and exiting the store without paying.
The suspect was stopped and escorted to a nearby room, where stolen merchandise, totaling $449.50, was recovered. However, the situation escalated when the suspect forcefully grabbed the merchandise back from the employee, triggering a more serious charge.
That action elevated the case from petit theft to robbery (sudden snatching/force) under Florida law.
Resistance Turns Violent
Deputies attempted to identify and process the suspect, but he allegedly:
- Provided false identifying information
- Refused fingerprinting
- Pulled his hands away repeatedly
- Raised a clenched fist toward deputies, creating fear of imminent violence
When deputies attempted to take him into custody, the suspect reportedly:
- Tensed and resisted handcuffing
- Refused commands to stand or cooperate
- Had to be forced to the ground and physically carried to a patrol vehicle
Charges Filed
The suspect now faces a wide range of charges stemming from both the theft and the physical resistance:
- Petit Theft (F.S. 812.014(3)(a))
- Robbery (Subsequent Use of Force) (F.S. 812.13(2)(c))
- Resisting a Merchant (F.S. 812.015(6))
- Resisting Officer Without Violence (F.S. 843.02)
- Resisting Officer With Violence (F.S. 843.01) (No Bond)
- Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer (F.S. 784.07(2)(a)) (No Bond)
The suspect was transported to the Orange County Jail without further incident.
Breakdown: Why This Became a Felony Case
This incident highlights how quickly a retail theft case can escalate:
- Shoplifting alone → misdemeanor
- Using force to keep stolen property → felony robbery
- Threatening or fighting deputies → additional violent felony charges
