Special-needs girl allegedly kicked out of AMC theater for laughing

INDUSTRY, Calif. (KABC) -- A La Puente mother says she and her special-needs daughter were kicked out of an AMC movie theater over her daughter's laughter.

Marji Schreurs took her three daughters, including 10-year-old Destiny, to see "The Fault In Our Stars" at the AMC Puente Hills 20 in Industry Monday night.

About 20 minutes into the screening, Marji says she was approached by a theater employee who asked her and her family to keep Destiny quiet because she was being "disruptive".

After exchanging words with the manager, Marji says her family was asked to leave the screening.

"He told me that my daughter was disruptive, and I either had to keep her quiet or I had to leave," Marji said. "I told him that my daughter wasn't a dog that I could just put a muzzle on and keep quiet."

Marji is a special education teacher who adopted Destiny about a year ago. She has another adopted special-needs daughter named Krystal.

Marji says the manager offered her tickets to a special screening of the movie.

"I told him that was discrimination, not only for her, but for my other two daughters and myself," Marji said.

AMC released a statement Tuesday afternoon, which tells a different version of the story. The theater chain says it was just trying to ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone.

"To ensure that everyone can enjoy the movie, we ask that guests respect those around them, and refrain from disruptive behavior," the statement read. "The manager explained our policy about making noise that disrupts others during the movie. At that time the guest asked for a refund, which was provided."

Marji's family has taken to social media, demanding that AMC change its policies.

Destiny's sister, Savannah, said the incident broke her heart. In tears, she said her sisters mean everything to her.