Sterling Renaissance Festival Owner Arrested Again on Sex Charges

Doug Waterbury, 65, faces new allegations of attempted rape and witness bribery.

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The owner of the Sterling Renaissance Festival, Doug Waterbury, has been arrested again by New York State Police on charges related to an alleged attempted rape. Waterbury, 65, of Oswego, was indicted by an Oswego County grand jury after a victim contacted him about housing and he instead drove them to an empty building, exposed himself, and demanded a sex act. When the victim refused, police say Waterbury later offered money in exchange for dropping the complaint.

Why it matters

This is the second time Waterbury has faced sex crime charges, raising concerns about repeat offenses and the continued operation of the popular Renaissance festival under his leadership. The allegations also highlight the vulnerability of those seeking housing assistance and the potential for abuse of power by those in positions of authority.

The details

According to investigators, Waterbury drove the victim to an empty building after they contacted him about housing, where he exposed himself and demanded a sex act. When the victim refused, Waterbury later allegedly offered money in exchange for dropping the complaint. He now faces charges including attempted rape, patronizing a person for prostitution, and attempted bribing of a witness.

  • Waterbury was arrested on Tuesday, March 4, 2026 by New York State Police.
  • He is scheduled to appear in court on April 27, 2026.

The players

Doug Waterbury

The 65-year-old owner of the Sterling Renaissance Festival, who has now been arrested twice on sex crime charges.

New York State Police

The law enforcement agency that arrested Waterbury following an Oswego County grand jury indictment.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold those in positions of power accountable for abusing the trust placed in them by the community.”

— Oswego County District Attorney (Oswego County Today)

What’s next

The judge will decide on April 27 whether to allow Waterbury to be released on bail pending trial.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for greater scrutiny and oversight of those running community institutions, to ensure the safety and well-being of all who interact with them, especially the vulnerable. It also raises questions about the festival's future under Waterbury's leadership.