Intoxicated Guest from Jersey Charged with Trespassing After Outburst at Disney World Bar

Disney Springs Outing Ends in Arrest for New Jersey Tourist

What was intended to be a night of dining at Walt Disney World took a legal turn last month when a New Jersey man was arrested following a disruptive outburst at a popular Disney Springs eatery.

Stephen DiGiovanna, 61, is facing a misdemeanor charge of trespassing after allegedly refusing to leave The Polite Pig restaurant on the evening of December 7. According to court records, DiGiovanna has pleaded not guilty.

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Escalation Over an Empty Glass

The incident began shortly before 9:00 p.m. at the modern BBQ establishment located near the Lime Parking Garage. According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office arrest report, staff called for law enforcement assistance after DiGiovanna reportedly began yelling and throwing objects.

The catalyst for the confrontation? The restaurant’s decision to stop serving him alcohol. “I later learned that Mr. DiGiovanna was cut off from the bar for being intoxicated and he got upset that he was served water and not alcohol,” the responding deputy wrote in the report.

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Multiple Warnings Ignored

When deputies arrived, they found DiGiovanna still seated at the bar with a plastic cup. The report describes him as appearing “highly intoxicated,” noting slurred speech and a refusal to acknowledge the situation.

Despite deputies explaining that the restaurant is private property with the right to refuse service, DiGiovanna allegedly continued to argue.

• The Request: Deputies asked DiGiovanna “multiple times” to depart the premises.
• The Refusal: The report states he repeatedly refused to leave, claiming he did not understand why he was being ousted.
• The Result: After several opportunities to exit peacefully, DiGiovanna was placed in handcuffs and charged with trespassing after warning.

A Growing Trend?

While Disney World is often called “The Most Magical Place on Earth,” it is not immune to disruptive behavior. DiGiovanna is among dozens of visitors arrested annually at the resort for offenses ranging from excessive speeding and public intoxication to battery on hospitality staff or law enforcement.

DiGiovanna’s attorney has declined to comment on the ongoing case.

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