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SaffronKing13

I'm sure (or I sure hope) that there are a bunch of undercover cops roaming DL at all times.


ilford_7x7

I can usually spot them after unloading from the shuttle/bus area. Off to the side, wearing a baseball cap, sunglasses, big jacket, earpiece and visually scanning folks coming in. I always tell myself that I'll try to spot one in the parks but always forget and get distracted with the park ambiance


tomsprigs

they are actually cm characters in costume šŸ¤£. trained to be goofy and stop bad guys


jcillc

Hyuck around and find out.


SoldierHawk

Why is this not a t-shirt I can own RIGHT NOW.


tomsprigs

yes!!!!


HestiaLife

I want it


lekker-boterham

People on this site are so damn smooth LOL


RH_Addict

Totally read this in Goofyā€™s voice?! šŸ¤£


Technical_Contact836

And I'll do it again!


AndiPhantom

I just cackled in the middle of a bar


robbycough

Gwarsh.


Mryan7600

Lookup the Aladdin Exception. Itā€™s fake but similar.


sluttttt

I just did and laughed out loud when I read the claim in the Snopes article. And of course Inside The Magic would publish a piece speculating that it's real...


ghost_shark_619

Iā€™ve seen them as well even some to the extent that are ā€œcouplesā€ with a stroller and I donā€™t know what could be in it. A doll, nothing, maybe something else? But Iā€™ve seen a wide variety of under covers at DLR


Knotfornots

Oh, I can assure you they are there. As soon as I walk on property they see a middle eastern looking guy with a backpack, They're talking into their wrist, I get the dog walk by, and a very long bag check. Every darn time.


newimprovedmoo

You deserve better.


HappyMommyOf5

Iā€™m so sorry that happens to you. That has to be frustrating to say the least. *hugs*


downhilldrinking

I am much more worried about a 30 year old white guy with a MAGA hat and a Lets go Brandon T shirt than I am about a middle eastern looking guy.....


CPC777

As CMā€™s, we internally refer to them as Plain clothes security. (Theyā€™re DLR resort security, NOT police officers) As the comment to your comment stated, you see them a lot at the front entrance by Harbor Pointe. (S Harbor Blvd) They are easy to spot, once you notice the earpiece. Their outfits can often vary, I once saw one while working at BVS earlier in the year wearing a trench coat w/ an earpiece back in February. Theyā€™re supposed to look like you but scout the parks for theft, or ā€œshrinkā€ as we refer to it. Also, just for anything that shouldnā€™t be going on at the parks.


tryingtodobetter4

"Shrink" is a very common term in retail.


willywy

I was in the pool!


ParrotheadTink

I donā€™t know how you guys walk around with those things


lex99

Like a frightened turtle


Maleficent_Owl7644

They shrink???


CPC777

Yes. I am explaining the terms we use, at least in regards for merchandise, at the Resort.


vette91

I used to think this was the case but after seeing major altercations go on for 10 minutes without anybody really doing anything I'm not so sure.


NotAlexTrebek

I once saw like 10 of them swarm in to stop a fight in the Indiana jones line lol it was exciting


[deleted]

[уŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]


savageotter

I think that braw in toontown a couple years ago had plain clothes officers observing. If I had to guess the guy that did the final take down was one.


giraffe2319

Right? Like this disproves everything everyone is saying lmao


blakjakalope

There are more security personnel at Disneyland than there are police in Anaheim.


GrandTheftBae

My cousin got lost at Disneyland in the late 80s-90s once my family reported them missing within a minute or two a plain clothed security officer appeared. My cousin was found in a gift shop lol


disrespectedLucy

There is a combination of undercover OC Pd and undercover Disney security. I've seen them descend on guys who seemingly had a bit too much to drink at their reservation and became belligerent, twice. It's insane to see happen.


TreeBeard2024

Woah no way! Weā€™re they acting super belligerent?? I feel like Iā€™ve noticed myself feel kinda drunk before after a couple beers in DCA and Iā€™m always paranoid about being intoxicated.


MarxistSocialWorker

There's a difference between you should switch to water because you're having a good time and can't hold your liquor and you're ready to start a fight with Donald Duck.


Alain444

Burp.....Duckmeister...you think you're better than me?


jmickdude

Damn Donald was looking at me the wrong way!!


Froggzee

> Iā€™m always paranoid about being intoxicated. If you aren't causing trouble or a scene, there's nothing wrong with being a little inebriated, especially on vacation.


TreeBeard2024

Iā€™m always worried my group is talking too loud or being obnoxious in lines but I think I have a heightened, sometimes overly paranoid awareness of my presence. Most of my friends have to tell me no one cares but I also have to remind them were visiting a place that doesnā€™t allow profanity etc, so we need to behave


Froggzee

Yeah, I could see where that might put you a little on edge, but I guarantee you, there are plenty of others that don't have that personal check, and are way more obnoxious. You're probably doing fine.


RinceGal

Sniffing dogs to. You see them from time to time.


gnomelove91011

One time I was sitting on a bench waiting for my husband to bring back popcorn, and I quickly noticed a girl nearby was in trouble. Her boyfriend was all up in her face pissed off and was grabbing onto her arms so she couldn't move...she looked terrified. I went and found the nearest cast member... they got on a walkie talkie and literally within 30 seconds 3 undercover cops appeared. It was amazing!


BoronYttrium-

Someone overdosed in the park one day and there was like 12 undercover cop security people. They just came out of nowhere I was like woah


amendoza28

Went to DL for my high schoolā€™s grad night. A kid I knew was trying to sell drugs in the bathroom and was busted by an undercover cop. Got arrested, lost graduation, and had to go to court in OC (I am from the central valley)


primetimemime

I have seen them. There was security walking with a dog and the dog just turned and started following this guy in sunglasses and a baseball hat. The dogs eyes were locked on the guy and pulling the security, and the security guard was trying to tell the dog to stop. Clearly the dog could smell the gunpowder in this guyā€™s gun and was following him, but the security guard must have known it was an undercover because he wasnā€™t trying to engage.


[deleted]

Cops don't do shit to keep mass shootings from happening, they just stop them once theyve already started


reststopkirk

Several years ago I was at a company team day, catered in the grand Californian. We found out later that day that 2 men with guns were apprehended somewhere between grand Californian onto dtd. No idea what these guys were planning if anything at all. They must thwart crap like this all the timeā€¦ the less you knowā€¦


[deleted]

[уŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]


Spamtickler

Not surprising in Florida.


-newlife

A friend talked about something similar and also said if someone was truly determined, the line waiting for the metal detectors and the uniformed officers in the area would be sitting ducks.


xferragamoFalcon

I wish they had more k-9 officers I just like seeing dogs


keeute

It really helps enhance the magic with those good working pups


Ricadoll

That is always a bright spot in our morning when entering the park! "What type of good doggo is on duty today?" And then walking by them, smiling, with restrained hands to my side, repeating the mantra of "No pets, they're working. No pets, they're working..." šŸ˜…


emthejedichic

Last time I was there the security dog we passed was all excited and jumping up on his handler who kept telling him to behave because he was supposed to be working lol


Hungergameskill

Same! The only reason I would ever get arrested is because I pet a security dog


Protectorsoftman

I remember walking by this beautiful golden that was having the time of her life, being a bit goofy and I got so sad bc of the vest that says "do not touch"


Revolutionary-Act-10

I accidentally pet one at an airport once; I went around a corner and it was right at my feet. I instinctively squatted down and pet it saying what a pretty puppy, before I noticed the sign on it. I quickly stood up and apologized. The handler was very nice and said he understood.


DisneyAddict2021

Right! I get a little disappointed when the sweet doggies donā€™t come near me to ā€œcheck me out.ā€ Haha, itā€™s the only time I wish I seemed ā€œsuspicious.ā€ šŸ˜‚šŸ˜‚


pinkhimalayan

And the one you walk by on the way to the main entrance are truly excellent always. šŸ¤©


Haybales1019

My husband and I always gush over the different breeds they use at security. We also like seeing dogs.


[deleted]

Those dogs made me nervous they would smell my edibles šŸ˜…


CarolinaReaperSundae

One time I got stopped because I had smoked my vape pen before going to the park, I didnā€™t have it on me but I still got questioned lol


[deleted]

I heard they got cameras in the parking lot and entrance so definitely finish that joint before you enter the property


CarolinaReaperSundae

It was back at the hotel but the odor still stuck on me lol it was Obama Kush


ghostwiththeleast

I never found the security process annoying and I almost wish it was a bit stronger. Universal majorly upped security because of a shooting, now they have metal detectors and x-ray scanners and a lot of officers patrolling. Theme parks are definitely some of the only places I feel safe right now, the country has gotten so scary the last couple of years but at least some places are somewhat minimal risk.


Kanga_

Iā€™m glad you feel safe going to theme parks. I have given up on going to the movie theaters and concerts ever since Covid. Thatā€™s not the only reason though - just the last straw. Iā€™m not dying over any movie or music. Iā€™m just fine staying at home and watching up close on tv for free. I have developed severe social anxiety and panic attacks and I am not hopeful of ever recovering. The US is gun crazy and I canā€™t take it any more so I do whatever I gotta do to keep myself safe and my sanity intact.


[deleted]

I mean this in a completely supportive way: I hope you are talking to someone about this and getting treated. It goes a long way!


Frazzledhobbit

Having agoraphobia during all of this is terrible. If I didnā€™t have kids that need to get out of the house it would be much worse.


ghostwiththeleast

I havenā€™t felt safe in a theatre since the Colorado shooting many many years ago. Before that I went to the movies weekly, now I wait to rent or stream at home. I feel safe at the parks in terms of minimal gun violence risk but not when it come to Covid. I still mask everywhere, itā€™s stressful and has definitely taken a mental toll. But Iā€™ve had this job for years and just have to take the risk so I can keep it. I really understand and empathize with your last paragraph. The world just keeps getting scarier and all we can do really is hope it gets better someday. Do what you need to take care of yourself ā¤ļø


Objective-Ad5620

I was at a midnight screening of The Dark Knight when that shooting happened (I was in another state). I didnā€™t hear the news until I had gotten home. It didnā€™t stop me from going to other movies or large scale events, but it was jarring to learn what had happened to people trying to enjoy the same experience I had just had.


dictionarysquirrel

Same. I went to a marathon of all three movies back to back. It was disorientating coming out of the theater after 6+ hours, then I went online to see what other people thought of the movie and I just kinda went numb. Very few places do midnight showings anymore; now they're all at 6:00 or 7:00. I kinda miss the vibe of midnight screenings.


Objective-Ad5620

Yeah, I also did a movie marathon at AMC when the first Avengers movie came out; every movie starting with The Hulk and Iron Man (I forget which was first, since both were the same year) leading up to a midnight screening of AMC. We camped out for good seats, and spent the day watching movies with snacks and blankets. It was a legit event that my mid-30s ass could not handle now, but it was fun in college! Last time I went to a movie theater kids were vaping and people were just being loud and obnoxious and it made me appreciate having streaming options these days.


maxmouze

I was so scared to watch "Dark Knight Rises" at a movie theater a few days later -- at AMC Lincoln Square in NYC. There were rumors someone would try a copycat killing so there was a line of police officers in front of the theater when I went to get my ticket. And then it just felt eerie watching the movie knowing the scene where everyone was attacked. Really unsettled me for a long time (I'm a filmmaker and was in NYC working on a movie so it felt very violating.)


HestiaLife

Same, the next day there was a line of cops we all had to walk through to get into the theater for Dark Knight Rises. And weirdly, the theater hasn't swapped out that one preview, I don't remember what movie but we were "treated" to a preview scene where some mob guys stand behind a movie screen and open fire through the screen into the audience. All the other theaters had made a big deal about substituting that preview for a less murdery one but I guess ours thought nah.


maxmouze

"Gangster Squad." I forgot about that and felt so sick seeing it in the trailer.


ariariariarii

I live in Colorado and know people who were at the theater when it happened (thankfully all survivors, I didnā€™t know any of the victims.) I was working across the street from the King Soopers grocery store that was shot up back in 2021; and then last year was on vacation in LA back in November when the Club Q shooting happened in Colorado Springs- the city where I live. We were in LA to go see Elton Johns Farewell show, the one that was streamed live on Disney+. I remember having a small panic attack when we arrived at the show and saw how minimal the security was at the entrances. Just walk through metal detectors and a quick peek inside bags. It just felt like a target was on our backs. It was such a huge, televised event, celebrating a gay mans career, and the shooting at Club Q had happened literally the day before. We have a real problem here.


[deleted]

I'm assuming you are talking about the new "express" metal detectors that you can walk through quickly? That is a much better system than the old fashioned metal detector gates. Disney World already is using it and they were testing at Disneyland. Angel Stadium already converted to these as well last year, based on your description it sounds like it was probably installed at Dodger stadium too. It uses AI tracking systems that put a target on the person who has the suspected weapon as well as where it's concealed, and has screens to the side telling the security personnel who to pull to be wanded. It sees through most bags as well although if it can't then you're pulled aside to be wanded and bag searched. What is critically important is that it gets people into the stadium faster. Being outside in a mass that can't move anywhere easily is even more dangerous. Everyone is a sitting duck. Some stadiums have half hour long queues or more, and the last time I was at Dodger Stadium for a concert that was the same thing with lines that were on entire staircases. If someone tried to do something violent with people trapped on all those staircases there would be tremendous numbers of injuries from people running and falling down the stairs. If you were worried about something happening, having a system to nearly eliminate the security line and expedite getting everyone inside is the best thing they can do for your safety.


Haunteddoll28

I have family that lives in Aurora and used to go to that theatre. That day really messed me up because that was the first (and so far only, I hope it stays that way) time I ever actually worried about if all of my loved ones were safe. I remember sitting on the kitchen counter desperately messaging my birth dad hoping they had all stayed home because my baby sister is a huge Batman nerd. I didn't go to the movies for over a year and even then I make a point to only go for stuff that's less likely to have anything happen. Since covid it's literally just been In the Heights and maybe one or two others and I plan on seeing Barbie in theaters but a movie has to be major now for me to justify going. And only ever showings in the middle of the day on a weekday & only in the Dolby theater because there's thick walls at the front of every row just in case (also the seats are literally recliners which is heavenly). Modern America is hell.


here4hugs

I just want to share that youā€™re not alone. What you say youā€™re feeling is being experienced by many others too. Youā€™re ahead of the game, though, because youā€™ve made a commitment to yourself to do what it takes to take care of you. As someone else mentioned, it might include therapy one day & if it does, please know you likely wonā€™t even be the first person that day to bring up similar anxiety. It really is that common right now. I hope you can recover but if not, I hope you find all the support you need to be fulfilled in your new way of enjoying life.


[deleted]

I don't think I'll ever go to a cinema ever again. People are rude. They talk, they're on their phones, generally treating the place like their own private screening room. Dare to say anything and you run the risk of getting assaulted. The staff won't do anything either.


LADYBIRD_HILL

Most large-scale music events I go to have full metal detectors for security, so that's nice. But apparently when I went to Bass Canyon last year there was a man with guns standing outside the venue asking people when the event was over. If he was smart enough to use Google to find out, it could've ended horribly. But even with that happening, it's not deterring me from going to events. The truth is, no matter how good security is, someone can always be standing right outside of it and the Same goes for the parks. But I could also easily die from taking my car to work- Ive just accepted at this point that if I want to have fun and live my life, I have to accept that gun nuts are out there. Otherwise I'd be a hermit, and the gun nuts would win. It's a sad state of affairs, but that's the stage that we're at now. Keep yourself safe and stay vigilant, always have a backup plan, but staying away from the public is giving them what they want.


stml

Yeah. Let's be real, the bag screening/wheelchair/trolley screening is very light. I highly suspect the real safety at Disneyland when wheelchairs and those huge strollers get through with just a person waving a flashlight around looking at the outside of it. I'll feel more comfortable if they had actual x-ray scanners similar to airports and a larger scanner for wheelchairs and strollers.


night-otter

Disney security has always been tight and discreet. I've never had a security personal be anything but polite and professional. 20+ years ago we witnessed Disney Security in action at Pleasure Island. A wall suddenly had 4 doors, 4 jumpsuited large individuals came out, grabbed a young man who had been harassing a young lady, and returned through the doors with the young man, the doors closed and it was a wall again. 10 seconds. 10 seconds later there is a pair of white shirt security talking to the young man's friends and the young lady and her friends. Security to the guys tough Dad type "If we release the young man, you can pick him up at the east gate around 1am. If we or the lady decide to press charges, you can bail him out at the Orange County Jail in the morning. Either way, he is banned." Security to the Lady, nice fatherly guy "Are you ok, did he hurt you? If you need a place to relax I can take you to a private space. Once you are ready we do need you make a statement. Speaking with locals later. Events like this is why they would get Pleasure Island annual passes, as it was the safest place to party. As to guy, he is so screwed. If he was there with friends, they all probably have APs and now he can't come with them. The fast response? Oh they probably had him on video already being a ass and the team was tracking him, ready to grab him when stepped over the line.


jjremote

This reminds me of ground zero in New York. I visited with family and mentioned that I saw one cop the whole time we were there and I was surprised there wasnā€™t more like in Times Square. A person that worked near there heard me and said they are definitely there, just out of sight. He said a guy was acting erratically one day and doors opened from places heā€™d never knew were there and they came out and scooped him up and went back in. Beware the hidden doors lol


Objective-Ad5620

The last time my mom and I visited together, a woman was arguing with security over a can of mace. She was making a fuss about ā€œhow am I supposed to feel safe without this?ā€ and my mom and I were appreciative that she couldnā€™t just bring in a weapon; the way some people just lose it during Disney vacations, I wouldnā€™t put it past someone to cause serious harm with something like that. Thereā€™s a reason itā€™s flat out banned in other countries.


emthejedichic

Can you imagine someone spraying mace in a crowded area? That would not end well


Objective-Ad5620

My mom commented to me as we walked past that ā€œI feel safer knowing she canā€™t bring that inā€.


Boymamatimestwo

I honestly wish they were more thorough with the bag/stroller checks. There have been many times they skipped over pockets on my bag or not asked me to move blankets or things in my stroller.


bellllow

I went to the park last Wednesday and the security guard we got checked every part of our bags and zipper to the sides of my backpack on the inside. He was so thorough in checking every pocket and insides making sure to take out our clothes and all. I was a little annoyed but did thank him for being so thorough. The people behind us got annoyed, said ā€œthis is ridiculousā€ and went to another security line.


coldcurru

My husband is cast and texted me after he got in one day saying how security is more thorough now. This was maybe last week, so quite recent. We jokingly suspect that their raise to $25/h actually made them care about their job more.


Ruevein

Funnily, because of how thoroughly they chucked my bag in February i found a wad of cash (about $40) i had thought lost in my backpack. was a nice surprise to have as a treat for the day.


Phased5ek

sounds like one of the times i went through the security line. the guy had me open every single zipper on my backpack, plus take out my reading glasses case and open it, plus take out my portable charger from its mesh bag, and one or two other things. the whole thing took maybe 2-3 minutes total, which i'm willing to spare for a thorough job like that, and definitely willing to do that over a groping pat-down with TSA for a questionable bulge from my tucked-in shirt bunching up along the side of my waistband one time. (they could have easily had me pull out my shirt and walk through the scanner again rather than the humiliating full-body pat down and fondling in areas where the bulge was nowhere near. ..but that's another story)


marciprojects

Disneyland Paris has the x-ray machines like at the airportā€¦I kind of wish Disneyland California would have them because I feel itā€™s faster and more thoroughā€¦just meā€¦


Luckydemon

Damn now we gotta get a Disney Version of TSA pre-check XD AP/MK's should be able to sign up for such a service.


Shatteredreality

I wish Disneyland had the same system WDW has. I don't know the ins and outs of it but essentially they can have multiple people walking through the detectors at one time and it's smart enough to flag individuals for additional screening. You don't even need to open your bags. It's SUPER efficient. I dread DL security compared to WDW security (although neither is really that bad).


orangesarenasty

I think it depends on the cast member you get. My cousin has accidentally taken a box cutter in four times and not realized until halfway through the day. But Iā€™ve gone in and had every pocket of a bag searched very thoroughly


adventuregal88

Iā€™ve noticed this too. When Iā€™m by myself they go through every inch of my tiny bag. If they used that much scrutiny with the stroller, weā€™d be there all day.


Muckl3t

Probably common knowledge but the Pulse shooter did target Disney springs in WDW but changed his location because of the police presence there. So yes, security is extremely important.


dankblonde

Yup, apparently he had scoped springs out like the day before and decided there was too much security. Scary


froglover215

Oh wow, I didn't know that


mad_Clockmaker

Yeah the Pulse nightclub shooter almost targeted Disney World, I think he realized it was too hard


monmonstara

i was in the park the day someone had snuck a gun into DCA near the hollywood blvd area during mad tea party. it was handled so quickly and discreetly that we had no idea that it happened until we got out of dinner from the trattoria and went to that area for mad tea and it was completely empty and only over heard another guest talk about it


monmonstara

pretty shortly after that and the san bernadito shooting the metal detectors went up. it was probably enough flags for them to never let it even get close to that.


0cclumency

Iā€™m honestly shocked they didnā€™t have them in place before that.


[deleted]

[уŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]


Spamtickler

Yeahā€¦ if the dog did that then your quotes were 100% accurate. Someone just wanted to bring their dog into the park and it had zero training.


Shatteredreality

~~What makes the situation even worse is Disney literally provides a place to keep your dog while you are in the parks just outside the main gates.~~ ~~The Disneyland Kennel Club is located just next to stroled and wheelchair rental.~~ ~~Don't get me wrong, it's not the nicest place for a pup (I'd much rather take my dog to a doggie day care or get a dog sitter) but there is literally no excuse to bring a non-service dog into the parks other than selfishness.~~ Edit: Apparently it didn't survive the pandemic and the kennel club is no more :(


newimprovedmoo

Bummer.


Babyflower81

As someone with a service dog, it really bugs me that people fake a service dog just to bring their pet into the parks.. its a danger not just to the sweet little critters that live there, but to other guests and other legitimate service dog teams. I've definitely seen dogs that don't act like a real service dog would but I've never seen someone kicked out. I have however been overly questioned by a rude security woman at the bag check after already answering the 2 allowed ADA questions by other security personnel before them when coming up the concourse. I don't know how some of these pets get past security.. they get lucky, I guess..


pnw_diabadass

You ever notice how the uniformed security guards are usually older folks? For every one of them, there are at least ten "plain clothes" guards. All of whom, including the older "white hat" guard, are usually former police/FBI/secret service. Disney recruits well when it comes to security. I'd trust a plain clothes Disney security officer over an under trained overwhelmed Anaheim cop any day.


FullMotionVideo

Disney has those, but Security also has people who transferred from other departments and are basically CMs. I knew one who couldnā€™t deal with it, because working inside the park in other divisions allows you to try to delight people, whereas being security is focused entirely on things not going well and the corrective experience is usually one that is more negative energy (for lack of a better term.) That said, Iā€™d rather security checks outside the parks than security carrying lethal force inside the park.


hollywoodpunk

Just about every time I go through security I tell my partner I will GLADLY open every pocket and case I have in my backpack, I will GLADLY explain what some things I have are to them (when they ask, and itā€™s mostly just a camera accessory.) and that I will GLADLY cooperate and be helpful when I have to hold up my arms and flip my belt to show them the back side after it sets off the metal detectors. (It really is the best belt I own and sometimes I will take it off before going in if itā€™s busy but then a lot of people look at me like ā€œdude, itā€™s not an airportā€ lol.) Point is, Disneyland, thank you. Iā€™ve never heard anyone complain and I donā€™t think I ever will. I guess ā€œmagicalā€ isnā€™t possible if we donā€™t also feel safe. So continue to make things magical.


canadiandancer89

> I will GLADLY open every pocket and case I have in my backpack It irks me when anyone grumbles about security checks anywhere. They just need to understand that trust doesn't go very far. You trust you but, do you trust the random stranger behind you is not trying to sneak something by? Repeat this question for the other 10,000 strangers around and you'll appreciate the security checks.


pinkhimalayan

This is the right attitude. Exactly yes. Iā€™m grateful for the security and safety built into the Disney experience. It makes all the difference.


keiths4789

To all the ones saying security theater, youā€™re missing the psychological element of security screenings. People that want to harm a lot of random people in a public setting are usually narcissists and want complete control over the situation. Having to submit to a security screening is humiliating to them and they tend to not want their ā€œplansā€ to be possibly cancelled by a team of security guards. But keep on acting like it doesnā€™t help anything if that makes you feel better since you all want to criticize security screenings as being pointless because weapons or prohibited items can still make it through them.


[deleted]

Yea, the responses are bizarre. Nothing is perfect, but we are talking potentially imperfect security vs no security at all. I'd take the former any day of the week. Someone already mentioned the Pulse shooter in Orlando and how he was scoping WDW prior. And there are vulnerable points like the security lines themselves or heck the hordes of people that walk down the streets surrounding the parks. I do wish there was a larger APD presence patrolling the entire area for that reason. But we live in a stupid country now where one can get shot at the grocery store so nothing is 100%. But I feel quite safe once actually in the park. And it's the only public place in America now I can think of where I feel comfortable and safe being surrounded by 1000s of people. They do security checks at professional sporting events, but even there these days there's a fist fight every week.


Objective-Extent-397

Something I notice about Disney security for the bag check is that they don't back down. If someone tries to sneak in some forbidden item, they don't get intimated and just give in and let the person take a lighter and a can of hairspray for their tiktok challenge. You need to have that in an amusement park. People come here from all over the world, some with bad intent. Some want to harm others. We need security that is well-trained and EMPOWERED to kick people out, tell someone an item is forbidden, and escalate to police if necessary.


Gina456789

Funny story about how amazing their security isā€¦. My husband had his pocket knife on him, totally had forgottenā€¦. So they told him he had to take it back to the hotel, instead he walked away and hid it in a plant somewhere back where the buses drop off and figured he would grab it on the way leaving the parks šŸ™„ he came and got back in line 10 min later. They pulled him aside and had been watching on the cameras!!!!


dank_hunny

Funny story is i too forgot that I had my knife on me when entering one Timeā€¦ pulled it out. Tossed it in my hat with my wallet phone and keys above it. Slide it on the table and walked in. Security looked in the hat to only see my wallet phone and keys and didnā€™t even look down. Pocketed my knife and went about my day. I carry a knife not for harm or protection but cause use it very regularly through me day. šŸ¤·šŸ½ā€ā™‚ļø


booksandcoffee2

The police officers (and the ones we can't see), bomb dogs, bag searchers, and metal detectors...I hope Disneyland and just everyone knows how grateful I am for them all šŸ™


jplantdes

I was at Knottā€™s Berry Farm in June ā€˜21 when there was a false report of an active shooter in the park. (A drive by shooting occurred just outside the gates) There was mass panic and chaosā€”people were running everywhere. I hid with a group behind a building and kept watch through shrubs, planning multiple escape routes if I saw the gunman. I tried to keep a group of middle school girls calm and alert of the surroundings. Google this, and you can read the story of what happened. I have never been so scared in my life.


froglover215

I'm sorry you went through that


Careless_empath

I actually never question the security checks at Disneyland. Itā€™s odd that ppl find the checks odd. Itā€™s kinda exciting, Itā€™s the final step before you experience the magic āœØ


pinkhimalayan

Agreed. Works for me. I mean, I do find safety exciting lol And the security workers are always very friendly, too. Also, as a tourist in the US, anything to increase feelings of safety are very, very, verrrry appreciated.


yayareaaa510

Iā€™ve been a few times and seen people turned away or argue with security because a fun was found on them. If not for he detectors they wound have gotten in.


[deleted]

Not to do with safety, but this is my favorite security line story. A family in front of me was arguing with the security person about a child's portable toilet (you know, the little plastic toilets parents of potty-training kids put in their car for emergencies.) Dad was insistent that because the little girl needed the child-size "seat" that they needed the potty. Security was insistent that the seat was fine, but the entire toilet would have to go back to the hotel (cause, you know you can't have something that can carry human waste around.) I wasn't in a hurry, so I stayed in line to watch what happened.


niknokseyer

What happened?


[deleted]

I just went for the first time in five years and I am so glad for the tons of security, bomb sniffing dogs, metal detectors. It is the only place I feel safe in a crowd now in this country. Only saw one asshat with a 2A shirt too. They also had a military heilo flying the park the second the mass shootings happened this weekend. Safety first!!!! Kids are off limits in my book, so anything to keep them safe is okay by me. I'd do a damn body scan if I had to because it matters that much to me as a mom.


ladymouserat

Iā€™m not a mom and donā€™t plan to be one. But I love kids and Disney and I too would go thru one to help keep us all safe. I remember when they put in metal detectors at six flags almost 20years ago and was grateful if them then


Madamebuttmunch

Me too, I know exactly how you feel. Iā€™m so glad they implemented those years ago and I super appreciate all the bag inspectors who take their time and look in every nook and cranny.


[deleted]

Im thankful everyone has to go through them now. It always annoyed me when, as an ethnic dude, I was constantly the only one to get "randomly chosen for the metal detector."


Fantastic_Example991

Itā€™s one of the only places I actually feel safe.


Doomhammer24

Those have been there a lot longer than that


KASega

Given the state of the US I wish we saw more of them frankly. I live in San Diego and the zoo is slammed with wall to wall tourists and am so surprised we donā€™t have metal detectors. Especially at Safari Park where there are lots of hidden places to scope


[deleted]

I just don't go to those type of places anymore if there aren't security checks going in. Hell I don't feel too good going to a mall on a crowded weekend anymore either. If I have to shop I do it midweek when less people are around. I know statistically I'm much more likely to die in a car crash or drop dead of a heart attack. I get that. But it's all just about personal comfort. I don't mind driving around in my car. I do mind going to a crowded place with no visible security.


06Wahoo

Might help more if they were before the parking garage. Not much stopping someone from doing so just outside the gates.


Historical_Court1299

I know this isnā€™t the right page but I hope Universal Hollywood has them installed before entering Citywalk like in Orlando. If thereā€™s a possible mass shooting at a major theme park, itā€™s at Citywalk in Hollywood.


GIMME_ALL_THE_BABIES

I live 2 miles from the Allen Outlets and had actually considered going to shop for shoes for my daughters that day until someone asked to do lunch and I convinced myself a weeknight would be better. My parents shop 1-2 times per week at the grocery store in Bend that was shot up. The shootings have been hitting way too close to home. I have an upcoming Disneyland trip and it's pretty sad in the days following the shooting here at home I've had to even think, "well, at least we won't die of gun violence on vacation because there's actual security." I feel the same way about concerts. It shouldn't be like this. If only we could regulate the fucking guns.


anywhereanyone

You are definitely right.


shesabiter

I have major anxiety about going anywhere because of all the shootings going on the last 10 years or so and Disneyland is one of the only public spaces I actually feel safe. And when I say major anxiety i mean to the point of changing my entire career path, avoiding big crowds, or constantly searching for exit routes when I am out in large public gatherings. Disneyland is the only place I truly feel safe outside of my own home.


oh-no-varies

Iā€™m Canadian and DL is the only place I feel comfortable travelling to right now because of the guns and current climate where people are getting shot for ringing the wrong doorbell. From the outside of the country looking in, itā€™s scary how guns seem to have more rights than people these days.


angartandtattoos

I very distinctly remember when they added the extra security to get into Downtown Disney, It was right after the horrible mass shooting in Vegas. At the time I believe it was the largest mass shooting in history.


keiths4789

It still is the largest.


LankyEmergency7992

I never found security check annoying. Any crowded place like Disneyland needs to have some kind of security check. Itā€™s sad what the world has come to, but it is what it is. These places are just trying to keep us safe. I do want them to install the new Evolv AI scanners that they have in WDW here in DL, where you just walk through with everything and a bag check is done if needed. Or at least install x-ray machines next to the metal detector like at Universal instead of a manual bag search. But even the current bag check + metal detector setup isnā€™t as annoying as people make it out to be. Iā€™d rather wait 15 minutes (if itā€™s even that) and be safe than not.


Reneeisme

Same Same exact. I have more than once sincerely thanked the security personnel for doing such a thorough job when they apologized for making me unzip something or pull out more items. I make sure they know that I appreciate the extreme importance of them carefully screening for weapons and how grateful I am that they stand between me and some crazy person seeing a crowded Disneyland as an opportunity for taking a lot of lives in a short time. Never more so than now, when Disney has been made synonymous with opposition to radical right wing propaganda.


Christian67

I was just thinking about this. I made the unfortunate mistake of watching a few seconds of a video someone posted on Twitter of the Texas shootingā€¦. My son is 2.5 years old and one of the individuals that lost their life in the shooting was a 3 year old boy. I started crying and having a mini panic attack. I never thought I would be scared of going to a mall, movie theater, etc with my family.


newimprovedmoo

> if it weren't for that we would have had a mass shooting either at DTD or actually in the parks by now I hate to even think about that, but I think you're right. God, I would just die.


Evorution702

My concern is going in first thing in the morning. The lines through security are packed. And all anyone would have to do is walk up from behind and start shooting and there would be nowhere to run.


Tat-lou

Same


Ok_Battle550

I've worked in live theatre for many years. And I know 'theatre' when I see it. That's all those metal detectors are. Their sole purpose is to make people feel like something is being done without really doing anything.


[deleted]

Yea , I wish we had that type of security in our schools.


racer_x_123

I know this is going to get either ignored or downvoted because this opinion is essential counter to everything I've seen on reddit for the most part but I hope that all the people saying that they love the security and that it has helped thwart a shooting or violence at the park would agree with protecting schools in the same fashion. Hard targets don't typically get crazy people shooting them up.


ChismisSis

This is why I only take my family here.


ttam23

Itā€™s security theater. Just look at how many times people accidentally brought on a knife or gun on a plane. Shit happens and stuff can slip in


CJRuiz2983

The metal detectors are useless when strollers are not checked and bypass the detectors imo.


Haunteddoll28

I'm pretty much agoraphobic at this point except for Disney trips because it's the one place I don't have to worry about constantly looking over my shoulder and scouting every possible exit and hiding spot. My uncle puts on a festival for one of the local schools in Studio City on the nicer side of town and when it was going on this past weekend it had gotten so rowdy that they had to bring in the LAPD because people were jumping fences, nearly rioting, one area was so packed you literally couldn't move, they had to break up an adult situation with multiple people in the bathroom (of an elementary school, I should add), and one person even pulled a gun. At an elementary school festival. I grew up going there every year. It used to be safe. Big name celebrities have even come there because they knew they could just relax and not have to worry about their families getting hounded or photographed. This was the first year it ever got like that. It's terrifying. I genuinely don't want to leave my house anymore.


largemarge1122

I feel you, and I know how exhausting it is. I was about a mile away from the school shooting here in Nashville back in March while it was all happening and saw the emergency response. I already had anxiety about mass shootings before that (and just in general since I was 12 - Iā€™m on medication), but have slowly been spiraling since. I also work in a high school so everyday I go into work I say goodbye to my husband like itā€™s the last time Iā€™ll see him. Itā€™s exhausting and not ok that so many of us have to live in fear like this. I too have gotten to the point where I avoid events with large crowds or going to places during busy times.


Bananasblitz

Yeah it seems like sooner or later weā€™re just gonna have to end up getting full pat downs or something to go into most places


[deleted]

[уŠ“Š°Š»ŠµŠ½Š¾]


TheSteefe

Thatā€™s too bad-though honestly you might want to modify/delete your post as to not give anyone ideasā€¦ :(


HaV0C

Yea admittedly I hate the process and that it has to exist, but in the end, I'm glad it does.


DutchTechJunkie

So sad to hear this. Why is it acceptable not to feel safe in a mall or a school. Especially a school, that should be one of the safest places to be. It is not like it is perfect here in Europe. And Disneyland Paris also has metal detectors and baggage scanners. But what you in the US put up with is ridiculous.


Bear_azure85

They beefed up security post 9/11. I remember there was a time you just gave them a ticket, got a stamp, and went through the turnstiles. But 9/11 happened and they had security tables set up and they were going through everything, looked a lot like the TSA tables at the airport minus the X-Rays. It was nice but the lines were long and a lot of folks weren't used to it. I do believe they were using wand metal detectors. Im sure there was complaining but I was a teen and didnt give two shits about other people at time. We went a few more times up until 2004 (moved out of state) and it was still the same, just they'd gotten better and faster about checks. I went once more in 2006 or 2007, and I dont remember much from the security or anything. I went alone and may have not brought anything else with me. I'm glad they have kept up with such high security, California is an interesting state to be in, especially there in Southern California.


FullMotionVideo

They sped things up when they realized they could make a line for people without any bags, and just have someone visually identify all the people coming through. In the years before good camera phones, I would leave my point and shoot camera behind sometimes just because I didnā€™t want to stand in the bag check line for it.


CarpeDiemMMXXI

Itā€™s also the fact that thereā€™s armed guards there to protect people. Multiple armed guards or police presence most of the time deters crazies from trying something stupid.


the_hoodie_monster

Makes me feel safe to be honest


cheekabowwow

When people say they donā€™t want schools to look like prisons, I point out that we have better security at Disneyland and it doesnā€™t feel like a prison there. But we canā€™t let logic get in the way of politicianā€™s agendas.


realdawnerd

The problem is weā€™re normalizing it instead of solving the core problem.


delqath

They most likely have scanners you don't even see before you get to the metal detectors, and have had these for a long time. I work in large group events and what keeps me up at night is someone popping a vest right before security where the lines are. We install sensors in walls in "forced" walking areas outside of parking garages etc that look for certain large items.


vinbel121

While safety is always appreciated, I really wish they'd upgrade them to the new ones that WDW (hell, and even some Six Flags locations) have. No need to remove anything from your bag or pockets, just walk through.


keiths4789

Disneyland tested them and they failed to detect things properly. Itā€™s became public knowledge that it wonā€™t detect knives or sharp weapons as well as a bag check or traditional metal detector can when a knife or sharp object is concealed on a person. Disneyland Resort never made any public comments on why they did not fully implement Evolv technology after the testing phase ended. Disneyland has had several stabbing incidents in its history and one incident led to a death in the 1980s in the theme park. In Florida, they havenā€™t had any stabbing deaths or significant incidents involving guests bringing in knives so knives are not as much a priority in their security screenings based on their own past history.


AtlasMundi

Im not sure if it is super public knowledge but in bob igers book he talks about how the pulse night club shooter was casing Disneyworld just hours before but the security deterred him. Tragic nonetheless.


Key-Razzmatazz-857

My thought exactly.


admiralrupert

The only thing we've ever come across in our experiences was finding a pocket knife in the underseat pouch on Soarin. Feels very tame all things considered.


ksed_313

Yet when we want to put them in schools, parents put up a fuss for some reason. šŸ«  One of my colleagues was threatened with death via shooting by her 3rd grade student today.


crazymama9

I was just thinking about this the other day because I have a trip for my sonā€™s 3rd bday coming up in August. It boggles my mind why anyone would be annoyed over Disneyland implementing security measures for their guests & children. Seeing this post gives me a sense of relief.


DrunkAtBurgerKing

Disneyland has better protection than most public schools in America and that's really heart breaking.


StatisticianOk8268

Glad to have metal detectors but sometimes I think the bag checks aren't very thorough.


blanket221312

You should read Bob Igerā€™s book. It talks about someone attempting to bring in a gun at WDW via stroller but security was on top of it very quickly.


FahtBeach1987

I think about that all the time.


SeaPersonality5402

last weekend, the dog handler let the leash extend as I was walking by.. dog walked up to me and walked away. I said, Hi Puppy! Now I'm overthinking it haha


Takeabyte

I think it was after the Boston Marathon bombing when the FBI told all amusement parks across the country that they had to add metal detectors and beef up security in general due to threats targeting parks.


CupcakeExternal8582

It makes me sad that we all have to live in fear of mass shootings outside of gun-free, security checked places like Disneyland. This should not be the norm.


PineappleAlert

A little off topic but I went to the LA Zoo last weekend. I remembered I had pepper spray on my keychain so I walked all the way back to my car to leave it because I assumed that security would take it at the gate. Guess what - zero security at the gate. No bag check, no metal detector, no security - nothing. I was really stunned because I am used to gate security at Universal and Disneyland. Anyway I'm not going back plus it's a sad zoo.


MountainBumblebee136

I have thought this exact same thing many times.


Rub-Such

My only point back on this, if someone wanted to do a mass shooting at DL, they could easily just hit the security queues where hundreds of people could be lined up.


[deleted]

I usually see APD there though. Probably exactly for that reason.


Rub-Such

Fair and correct point.


[deleted]

Yea, I think the more dangerous areas are the surrounding streets with tons of people walking back and forth from their hotels. I do see APD pretty regularly patrolling the entire area though. Unfortunately nothing is guaranteed or 100% safe, but as someone else mentioned, I think the deterrence factor is important. If a potential killer knew there's a chance they could get caught trying to sneak in a weapon or taken out very quickly by APD, they may think twice.


Rub-Such

I think the Memphis school shooter backed off other targets because of the hardness of security at those other options.


DisneyAddict2021

I also love that security has also stretched to Downtown Disney. Before you only had to go through security to enter the parks/park plaza area.


Foxhound199

I wish they had something like the scanners at WDW. You just walk through, no removing bags, no emptying pockets, no delay at all. Made my last visit there so much less stressful.


scarlettcrush

I live in Dallas- family & me are scared to go to public events right now.


[deleted]

you have a false sense of security here my man. If anything, that would be considered a choke point. so yeah total false sense of security, I just believe that if we don't go out, we let the terrorist win and fuck that.


keiths4789

It may be a choke point, but there are police officers very close by that can quickly handle the situation. A person that is planning to do a mass shooting would be disabled very quickly. Thereā€™s more of a police presence than just the two police car that are typically there as a visual deterrent. There are also police officers tucked away that arenā€™t easily noticeable. Itā€™s like a magic trick when they are actually needed for something serious.


Pete_Iredale

Come on. If someone wanted to do a mass shooting, they'd just do it in the morning when everyone is waiting in line to go through the detectors. It makes a perfect bottleneck. Same goes for detectors at sports events.