Alert Disney Ticket Booker Helps Save Domestic Violence Victim, Police Say

A Walt Disney World booker on the phone with a Pennsylvania woman sensed the caller was in trouble and was able to alert authorities and stop a domestic violence situation, police say.

On January 9, according to the Northern York County Regional Police Department, the Dover woman, who was not identified, phoned Disney under the guise of ordering tickets to the theme park. During the call, the Disney employee became concerned upon hearing the woman yell “get off me” and “get away from me,” York’s WPMT reported.

When the booker asked the woman if someone was hurting her, she answered “yes” but would not give more detailed responses, police said.

“The Disney World employee at one point asked if [the woman] was actually calling to book a stay and she stated ‘no.’ She then asked [the woman] if she needed law enforcement to her home and she stated ‘yes,’” according to a criminal complaint obtained by WPMT.

The Disney employee contacted 911, the news station reported, and responding officers arrested Wayne Terry Shiflett, 38, at the woman’s home.

Police said the alleged victim was fighting with Shiflett, a fire extinguisher salesman, because she had told him to find a “real job” if he wanted to be in a relationship with her.

Charging documents state the woman told officers that Shiflett called her “spoiled” and began choking her, allegedly warning: “You need to learn to keep your (expletive) mouth shut” and “I'll (expletive) kill you,” WPMT reported.

Shiflett now faces multiple charges in connection with the incident, including strangulation, terroristic threats, harassment and aggravated assault.

If you or anyone you know needs help with domestic violence issues, please visit The National Domestic Violence Hotline on the Internet or call 1-800-799-7233. In the event of an emergency, please immediately dial 911.