🚨 Another shoplifting arrest at EPIC Universe $24 merchandise theft turns into arrest. Universal Orlando continues aggressive shoplifting enforcement.
ORLANDO, Fla. — Another shoplifting arrest has been reported at Universal Epic Universe, continuing a trend previously documented by WDW Active Crime involving aggressive theft enforcement and the growing role of loss prevention teams working alongside off-duty deputies.
According to an Orange County Sheriff’s Office arrest report, deputies working an off-duty security assignment at EPIC Universe responded to a reported shoplifting incident on May 5 after Universal loss prevention officers advised that a suspect had allegedly stolen merchandise valued at approximately $24.
The incident reportedly began when Universal loss prevention officers observed a guest remove merchandise from a store display and pass all points of sale without paying. The suspect was then approached by loss prevention personnel and escorted toward the park’s loss prevention office.
According to the report, the suspect initially cooperated during the investigation, but allegedly fled before Universal personnel could complete the civil recovery process. Deputies assigned to the park’s off-duty detail were then alerted to the fleeing suspect.
The report describes a foot pursuit through the park, including the Isle of Berk section and Celestial Park, before deputies and loss prevention personnel stopped the suspect. Investigators stated the suspect allegedly resisted efforts to be taken into custody, leading deputies to perform a takedown before additional deputies arrived to assist.
The suspect was ultimately arrested on charges including petit theft and resisting an officer without violence, according to the report.
Focus on Universal’s Loss Prevention Operations
This latest arrest adds to a growing number of theft-related incidents previously covered by WDW Active Crime involving Universal Orlando’s expanding security and loss prevention operations, particularly at the newly opened EPIC Universe park.
The arrest report provides unusually detailed information regarding the Orange County Sheriff’s Office off-duty program operating inside the resort. Deputies assigned to the detail were reportedly working in full OCSO uniforms and marked patrol vehicles while assisting with security and enforcement operations within the park.
The report also outlines how off-duty deputies assigned to Universal may still exercise full law enforcement authority while working private security details, including crowd control, protection of property, and enforcement of Florida law.
While the value of the allegedly stolen merchandise in this case was only $24, the incident highlights that Universal Orlando continues to pursue criminal charges even in relatively low-dollar theft cases.
The case also reflects the increasingly coordinated relationship between theme park loss prevention teams and local law enforcement officers stationed on property, particularly as EPIC Universe continues to draw large crowds during its opening period.
