Michael Byrne, a 37-year-old Lakeland man, was arrested at a backstage area of Walt Disney World following an undercover operation involving the solicitation of a minor. According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, Byrne was taken into custody at 751 Backstage Lane after communicating with a detective posing as a 13-year-old on Snapchat.
Undercover Detective Tracks Byrne to Disney Property
The investigation began in August 2026 when a user identified as “madmax17245” initiated contact with a Snapchat account managed by an undercover detective. The user claimed to be a 37-year-old man located in the Orlando area. Over the course of the interaction, investigators allege that Byrne sent one explicit image and three videos to the detective, who was posing as a 13-year-old. Byrne also reportedly requested that the supposed minor send images in return.
After linking the Snapchat account to Byrne, detectives tracked him to a location on Disney property. Upon his arrest, Byrne acknowledged that the Snapchat account belonged to him but claimed he was unaware he was communicating with a minor, according to the official arrest affidavit.
Investigation Focuses on How Byrne Accessed Backstage Area
Following the incident, Walt Disney World confirmed to News 6 that Byrne is not an employee of the company. Authorities have not yet disclosed how Byrne gained access to the 751 Backstage Lane location. The breach of this zone remains a focal point of the ongoing investigation.
Pending Criminal Charges
Byrne faces multiple charges, including solicitation of a minor via a computer, transmission of harmful material to a minor, and the illegal use of a two-way communication device. He was transported to the Orange County Jail following his arrest. Court records indicate he is currently being held without bond on the charges of solicitation of a minor and transmission of harmful material.
What Specific Charges Does Michael Byrne Face?
What specific charges does Michael Byrne face?
Byrne is charged with soliciting a minor using a computer, transmitting harmful material to a minor, and the illegal use of a two-way communication device.
Is Michael Byrne a Disney employee?
No. Walt Disney World officials confirmed to News 6 that Byrne is not employed by the company, though the method of his entry into the backstage area remains under investigation.
Where is the suspect being held?
Byrne was booked into the Orange County Jail and, according to the arrest affidavit, is currently held without bond.
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