Staff Report / March 4, 2026
Oswego County NY – The owner of the long-running Sterling Renaissance Festival is facing serious criminal charges following a grand jury indictment that includes attempted rape and witness tampering, according to law enforcement officials.
New York State Police say 65-year-old Doug Waterbury of Oswego was taken into custody Tuesday at the state police barracks in Fulton after an Oswego County grand jury returned the indictment. Investigators say the case stems from an alleged incident that occurred in June of last year.
According to the state police news release, the alleged victim had contacted Waterbury in regard to available housing after receiving his contact information. Waterbury is accused of agreeing to show a potential rental unit, only to drive the individual to a vacant commercial building in the town of Scriba instead. There, authorities say, he exposed himself and demanded the victim perform a sexual act. When the victim declined, Waterbury allegedly offered money in exchange for sex before later returning them to their residence.
The police investigation also uncovered evidence that Waterbury attempted to contact a third party in an effort to bribe the victim into withdrawing their complaint.
Following the grand jury’s action, Waterbury was formally charged with third-degree attempted rape and third-degree patronizing a person for prostitution — both Class A misdemeanors — as well as attempted bribing a witness, a Class E felony.
Waterbury appeared in Oswego County Court for arraignment and was released on his own recognizance. He is scheduled to return to court on April 27. Prosecutors note that charges are accusations and Waterbury is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
The Sterling Renaissance Festival, a popular seasonal event founded in 1976 and long a draw for historical enthusiasts, has been under Waterbury’s ownership for many years. Recent reporting by external sources indicates the owner’s tenure has included a number of legal controversies and civil actions related to alleged misconduct, housing practices, and prior harassment claims.
Local authorities continue to urge anyone with additional information related to this investigation to contact the New York State Police.
