An outing meant to be a fun family trip has turned into a criminal case in Idaho after authorities say a young child was repeatedly abused inside a public aquarium.

According to reports highlighted by Law&Crime and local investigators, a 7-year-old girl told authorities her parents “kept bonking” her on the head during a visit to the East Idaho Aquarium in Idaho Falls. The disturbing allegations led to the arrest of Zachary Olpin, 30, and Megan Olpin, 31, who now face multiple criminal charges.

Police say the incident came to light after surveillance footage from the aquarium captured what investigators describe as repeated acts of physical abuse. According to court documents cited in the reporting, the footage allegedly shows the couple striking the child multiple times, dragging her across the floor and pushing her down as she tried to stand.

In one particularly alarming moment described by investigators, the father is accused of forcing the child’s head into a nearby structure and an electrical box multiple times. Authorities say the actions were not isolated, but part of a pattern of behavior throughout the visit.

The child later spoke with investigators and child advocates, describing how she was hit and pushed because her parents were angry. Her account reportedly matched key details seen on surveillance footage, according to officials.

The parents, however, initially downplayed the severity of the incident. Court documents indicate Zachary Olpin claimed one of the more serious moments was accidental, while Megan Olpin allegedly admitted to limited physical discipline, describing isolated incidents. Investigators say the video evidence suggested a much more sustained series of actions.

Both parents were arrested and booked into the Bonneville County Jail. Zachary Olpin faces charges including felony and misdemeanor injury to a child, while Megan Olpin faces more serious charges, including felony aggravated battery and injury to a child.

Authorities say the couple later acknowledged their behavior was inappropriate and submitted written apologies, though the legal case is continuing.

The pair is scheduled to appear in court for preliminary hearings later this month as prosecutors move forward with the case.

The incident has drawn attention to the role of surveillance footage in uncovering alleged abuse in public spaces, as well as the importance of reporting concerns when a child’s safety may be at risk.