Guests hospitalised following chaotic incident at February nuptials in Longwood

A wedding in Florida turned chaotic in February after guests unknowingly consumed food laced with cannabis, leading to hospitalisation for several attendees. Bride Danya Shea Svoboda and caterer Joycelyn Bryant were arrested on Monday and face two felony charges each: food tampering and delivery of marijuana.

According to police reports, Ms Svoboda allegedly allowed Ms Bryant to spike the food without the knowledge of wedding guests. Many began to feel ill shortly after eating, with some requiring medical attention. A lawyer representing Ms Svoboda has refused to comment, while Ms Bryant did not respond to inquiries.

The incident occurred in Longwood, near Orlando, on 19 February. Guests reported an immediate, disorienting reaction after consuming the lasagna, with one attendee describing feeling “high” and overwhelmed with fear, texting herself in panic out of worry for her life.

Others recounted feelings of paranoia, hallucinations, pounding heartbeats, and extreme dryness. One guest even became so distressed she believed her son-in-law had died. Police arrest documents revealed the chaotic scene as officers arrived. When asked, the groom, Andrew Svoboda, denied any knowledge or request to spike the food.

However, further investigation suggests Ms Svoboda confessed to the act, reportedly confirming cannabis had been added to the lasagna. Testing later confirmed that at least three guests tested positive for traces of marijuana, and the lasagna itself was confirmed to have cannabis.

Both Ms Svoboda and Ms Bryant have been released from Seminole County Jail on bond and are set to appear in court in June.