Owner of Upstate NY’s Santa’s Workshop Arrested Again on Sex Crime Charges

Bad Santa

The owner of one of Upstate New York’s most recognizable tourist attractions is once again facing serious criminal charges.

Douglas S. Waterbury, 65, of Oswego — the owner of Santa’s Workshop in Wilmington near Whiteface Mountain — was recently indicted by an Oswego County grand jury on charges that include attempted rape, bribing a witness, and stalking, according to sources.

Took Her to an Abandoned Building

According to New York State Police and prosecutors, the charges stem from an incident in June when a woman contacted Waterbury about renting an apartment. Instead of showing her a property, investigators say he drove her to an abandoned building in the Town of Scriba.

Authorities allege that once inside, Waterbury exposed himself and repeatedly demanded that she engage in sexual activity. When the woman refused, he allegedly offered her money and continued making requests before eventually driving her home.

The victim contacted the police the following day, and investigators say Waterbury later attempted to bribe the victim through a third party to have the complaint withdrawn.
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Waterbury has pleaded not guilty to all charges.

Waterbury Also Owns Other Notable Attractions

The Oswego landlord has faced numerous accusations over the years. The report states that former tenants have previously alleged that he pressured women into sex in exchange for lower rent or property maintenance.

Waterbury owns several well-known Upstate New York attractions, including Santa’s Workshop, the Sterling Renaissance Festival, Sylvan Beach Amusement Park, and dozens of rental properties in Oswego.

His next court appearance in Oswego County Court is scheduled for April 27th, according to the report.