But Why at Disney World?

Walt Disney World is an ideal target for urban exploration because of its location and nostalgic fanbase. Beyond the parks, much of the resort property consists of wooded swampland, making an escape from security an easier task than at Disneyland in the city of Anaheim.

Additionally, Disney fans who grew up visiting Discovery Island or EPCOT’s Wonders of Life Pavilion are likely to wonder about the current state of said attractions–  Discovery Island and Disney Quest, with both locations having been off-limits since 1999 and 2017, respectively.

Legal Implications

Upon hearing of his escapades, Orlando law enforcement caught Sonswa in the act quickly. Although he stayed firmly within the exploits of urban exploring by refusing to steal or deface Disney property, Sonswa had been arrested and banned from the resort, going so far as to return for more videos afterward.

Sonswa was ordered by a Florida judge to never return to Disney property or shoot more videos of his exploits, which he has since respected. Sonswa’s Youtube channel has been demonetized, with no new content in the future.

In contrast, Spikes willfully endangered any respectability of Disney urban exploration could have by breaking the U.E.s’ ethical guidelines. He stole clothing from the Buzzy animatronic in Cranium Command, wigs from operating princess outfits, and unused memorabilia from the Haunted Mansion.

Spikes became more interested in personal and financial gain from his efforts, and thankfully, law enforcement caught up with him– charging Spikes with counts of Burglary, Grand Theft, and Fencing.

Currently, BackDoorDisney claims to be “under new management,” posting plenty of photos and videos from startling perspectives on resort property with no intentions of ceasing operations anytime soon. 

Is it worth it?

To return to our question: is an urban exploration in Walt Disney World worth facing a legal battle?

Unless you have a rich and powerful uncle working in Orlando P.D. or Disney Security, going rogue to take pictures in ‘Cast Members Only’ areas isn’t exactly a good idea. Key Disney urban exploration community members face threats of jail time for trespassing and theft. They encourage otherwise law-abiding individuals to risk a ban from entering Disney property for the rest of their lives.

Consider whether or not a probation sentence could be more valuable than a vacation at the most magical place on earth?