In a shocking incident at Walt Disney World Resort, a 64-year-old visitor from South Carolina allegedly assaulted a teenage hostess at one of the resort's restaurants. The man, identified as John Munro, was reportedly under the influence when he slapped the young hostess three times in the forehead after she refused to seat him due to the restaurant's dress code. Munro, ironically the vice president of hospitality, sales, and marketing at a prestigious resort in Hilton Head, now faces charges of battery.
The incident occurred at Cítricos, a dining establishment located inside Disney's Grand Floridian Resort, back in November 2023. According to reports, the hostess was checking in a family of three with a reservation when she discovered that they were actually a group of four, including two women and two men. It was Vice President John who was not dressed according to the restaurant's dress code, wearing casual swim shorts and a T-shirt. Cítricos has a strict dress code that requires guests to dress in attire that respects the restaurant's sophisticated aesthetic and explicitly prohibits swimwear.
Upon informing Munro that he and his family would not be allowed to dine due to his attire, the situation escalated. Munro initially agreed to wait with his group until they were seated, but later followed them to their table despite being told not to do so. One of the women in the group pleaded with the hostess not to allow Munro to sit with them, pointing out that he was drunk, underdressed, and embarrassing her on her birthday.
Fueled by alcohol and frustration, Munro began repeatedly slapping the hostess on the forehead, addressing her by name which he gleaned from her name tag. The shocked hostess stood in disbelief as Munro continued to assault her, holding the family's menus in her hands. However, another member of the family came to her aid, stopping Munro's assault and offering apologies on his behalf. The hostess and her supervisors immediately contacted the police, while the rest of the family was seated at their table.
Fortunately, the hostess did not suffer any injuries and declined medical treatment, but she expressed her desire to press charges against Munro. Deputies who responded to the incident noted Munro's intoxicated state, citing slurred speech, red eyes, and his constant mention of suing Disney. Munro was arrested and released on a $1,000 bond the following morning.
As news of the incident spread, Munro faced the consequences not only legally but professionally as well. He has been placed on administrative leave pending a review of the incident by his employer, Sea Pines Resort. Resort spokesperson Karen Moraghan confirmed Munro's administrative leave amid the ongoing personnel matter.
The case will soon be brought before the court, where prosecutors plan to present police body camera footage as evidence. Munro has entered a plea of not guilty and is scheduled to participate in a pre-trial conference hearing on February 16.
This unfortunate incident serves as a reminder that even the happiest places on Earth can sometimes become the setting for distressing events. It is crucial for both visitors and employees to maintain respect, adhere to rules and regulations, and promote a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.
