Busch Gardens employee allegedly molested 8-year-old family friend

TAMPA, Fla. (TCD) -- A 34-year-old former Busch Gardens employee faces multiple charges after allegedly sexually assaulting an 8-year-old child and having inappropriate contact with the victim.

The HIllsborough County Sheriff’s Office first learned about the allegations against Douglas McGee on June 4. According to deputies, McGee is a family friend and was the supervisor of the 8-year-old victim’s brother. McGee reportedly worked as a part-time park quality supervisor and began his employment with Busch Gardens in December 2021.

McGee allegedly gave the victim a cellphone and "engaged in inappropriate messaging." The suspect reportedly confessed to "inappropriate text messages, touching, and sexual battery."

Detectives arrested McGee on June 5 on charges of unlawful use of two-way communications device, transmission of harmful material to minor, sexual battery — victim under 12; defendant 18 or older, and three counts of lewd or lascivious molestation — victim under 12; defendant 18 or older.

McGee remains held in the Hillsborough County Jail without bond.

Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister stated, "Preying upon an innocent child and exploiting their vulnerability is deeply disturbing. My heart goes out to this child who was victimized by such a reprehensible individual."

In a statement obtained by WTSP-TV, Busch Gardens said, "The allegations against this former employee are abhorrent and run counter to everything we stand for. The crimes with which he is charged are unrelated to his park duties, and we are taking this matter very seriously. He is no longer employed by our company."