A male flight attendant from the UK has been taken into custody for allegedly pushing a teenage girl who he claims cut the line at Disney’s Magic Kingdom.
Keith Newman, aged 47 and working for Virgin Atlantic, is accused of shoving the 18-year-old at the Florida theme park on February 20, causing her to stumble and accidentally spill water on a friend.
According to reports, Newman asserted that the girl bypassed him in the queue for the Tiana’s Bayou Adventure ride, themed after the Princess Tiana character from the Disney film “The Princess and the Frog.” He reportedly extended his arm to prevent her from moving forward, citing the presence of a line.
The teenager alleged that she attempted to go around him, but he forcefully pushed her back with both hands, leading her to fall backward into her friend and causing her water bottle to spill over herself. Fortunately, the victim did not sustain any injuries and did not require medical attention.
While Newman denied pushing the girl, a friend of the victim supported the claims during a police interview. The friend recounted hearing Newman say, “There is a queue,” before attempting to push the teenager with his arm.
The friend further alleged that when the victim resisted being pushed, Newman used both hands to forcefully shove her back. Newman countered by stating that he merely extended his hand and the victim walked into it. However, based on the statements gathered, authorities found probable cause to arrest Keith Richard Newman on charges of battery.
Following his arrest, Newman posted a bail of £734 ($1,000) and returned to the UK, where he resides with his partner, also an airline employee, in Lemington, Newcastle.
Meanwhile, the father of the victim condemned the steward’s actions as “inexcusable.” He emphasized the importance of not resorting to physical contact unless in self-defense, particularly when dealing with someone significantly younger and of the opposite sex.
Describing his daughter as appearing younger than her age, the father highlighted her petite stature and weight, reiterating that she was a minor and condemning Newman for his actions.
This incident has raised concerns about appropriate behavior and respect for personal space, prompting discussions on the importance of handling conflicts without resorting to physical force.
