British man arrested at Disneyland Paris over ‘mock wedding’ to nine-year-old girl
What Happened?
A 22-year-old British man has been arrested at Disneyland Paris for allegedly staging a mock wedding with a nine-year-old Ukrainian girl before the park opened on Saturday. The Disneyland ceremony had reportedly involved hiring over 100 extras, including children aged five to 15. The event had been promoted online as a wedding rehearsal, and many participants were unaware of the true nature of the event. French police also detained the girl’s 41-year-old Ukrainian mother and two Latvian nationals. Two are being investigated for fraud and money laundering. Authorities say the child was not harmed or forced to take part.
What Next?
Authorities in France are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the event, with a focus on potential child exploitation, money laundering, and misuse of private venue hire. Two suspects remain in custody. Disneyland Paris is reviewing its private booking and security protocols.
Prosecutors have not ruled out additional charges as the investigation develops. The girl has been placed under protective care.