Hotel Vice President Allegedly Attacks Disney World Worker

(UnitedHeadlines.com) – The Vice President of Hospitality, Sales, and Marketing at Sea Pines Resort in Hilton Head, South Carolina, will appear in court in February, accused of slapping a 19-year-old hostess at a Walt Disney World restaurant located at the Grand Floridian Resort.

John Munro, 64, of South Carolina, was arrested and charged with battery after he allegedly slapped a hostess at Cítricos in the forehead three times after she refused to seat him because of the dress code at the restaurant. Munro was allegedly under the influence when the November incident occurred.

Deputies from the Orange County Sheriff’s Office responded Nov. 19, 2023, to the resort after receiving a call for a battery, according to the arrest affidavit. A restaurant hostess was waiting on a family with a reservation for three just before 7:30 p.m. However, the party arrived as a group of four, two men and two women. The party included Munro, who was wearing swim shorts and a T-shirt, and two women. The Cítricos’ website dress code says swimwear is not allowed, and guests should dress in attire that respects “the restaurant’s sophisticated and upscale aesthetic.” The hostess then instructed Munro that he would not be able to dine with his family due to his attire. Though he seemed to understand, the situation escalated after his family was seated, according to the report.

One of the women said to the hostess, “Don’t allow him to sit with us,” adding that it was her birthday and “he is really drunk.” According to the report, the hostess instructed Munro he could not sit with his group, which is when he repeatedly slapped the hostess’ forehead. The hostess was not injured in the incident but told deputies she wanted to press charges.

Deputies arrested Munro, and he was released on a $1,000 bond. He pleaded not guilty, and a pre-trial conference hearing is scheduled for Feb. 16.

“Amid review of this personnel matter,” Munro was placed on administrative leave, according to resort spokesperson Karen Moraghan.