A man has been accused of using scuba gear to escape after reportedly tying up employees at a Disney restaurant and stealing thousands of dollars in cash.
On September 15, Paddlefish, a well-known dining spot at Disney Springs in Orlando, Florida, was reportedly targeted by a thief, according to an incident report obtained by Fox 35.
The alleged crime occurred during the night, with the suspect dressed in black and wearing goggles.
According to the outlet, the suspect entered the manager’s office and instructed the individuals inside to get ‘down’ on their knees and ‘close their eyes’.
The suspect departed two minutes later, prompting Paddlefish employees to call 911 for police assistance, as stated in the report.
The Orange County Sheriff’s Office notes that the suspect, dressed similarly to a wetsuit and wearing goggles, was not armed.
However, a photo shared by police showed the suspect holding an unidentified object towards a security camera. It remains unclear what the item was.
Local 12 reported that the suspect broke into the establishment on the artificial Lake Buena Vista shortly after midnight. The suspect reportedly exited the same way he entered.
The report included charges of robbery and grand theft.
Fox 35 reported that the exact amount of money stolen is still unknown, though it is estimated to be between $10,000 and $20,000.
Paddlefish employees were unharmed, allowing them to clean up and reopen the restaurant for Disney Springs visitors 12 hours later, as reported by Local 12.
The restaurant, known for its seafood, is housed on a moored modern steamboat at Walt Disney World Resort.
The yacht-themed restaurant opened in February 2017, taking over from Fulton’s Crab House after a substantial renovation, which included a complete redesign, according to a press release.
While located on Disney property, the 760-seat Florida restaurant is privately owned and benefits from Disney’s robust security measures.
Recently, it was announced that Disney Springs would be enhancing its security protocols.
All visitors to the shopping and entertainment area are now required to undergo security screenings, including passing through metal detectors and bag checks.
Previously, guests arriving at Disney Parks by bus were not subjected to these procedures. This security gap was addressed in July.
The investigation into the robbery at Paddlefish remains active.
Inquiries have been made to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office for further comments.