An Idaho couple, Zachary Olpin, 30, and Megan Olpin, 31, have been charged with multiple crimes related to the alleged abuse of their 7-year-old daughter during a visit to the East Idaho Aquarium in Idaho Falls. Police say the child was subjected to repeated beatings, including a disturbing incident where her father slammed her head into a metal electrical box.
Details of the Case
The Olpins are facing criminal charges in Bonneville County following accusations of child abuse that were caught on surveillance video. The 7-year-old girl spoke to investigators, revealing that her parents “bonked” her on the head repeatedly because they were mad at her.
The video footage showed the couple striking their daughter several times, including an incident where the father, Zachary Olpin, allegedly slammed the girl’s head into a metal electrical box.
Charges Against the Parents
Zachary Olpin faces one felony count and one misdemeanor count of injury to a child, while Megan Olpin is charged with felony aggravated battery, felony injury to a child, and misdemeanor injury to a child.
Incident at the East Idaho Aquarium
The alleged abuse occurred on February 8, 2026, at the East Idaho Aquarium. Surveillance footage from the aquarium captured the Olpins dragging their daughter around, striking her multiple times. In one instance, Megan Olpin is seen hitting the child with a shoe, knocking her down, while Zachary Olpin repeatedly pushed the girl down as she tried to stand.
At another point, the footage reportedly shows Zachary Olpin lifting his daughter and slamming her head into a wooden structure, followed by using his shoulder to force her head into the electrical box at least three times before leaving the aquarium with her.
Parents’ Admissions and Apology
The couple attempted to downplay the events, with Zachary Olpin claiming the electrical box incident was an accident. Megan Olpin admitted to hitting her daughter once with a shoe and once with a set of keys. However, both parents eventually acknowledged that their behavior was inappropriate and expressed regret by writing apology letters.
Investigation and Arrests
The Idaho Falls Police Department conducted an investigation, with child advocates speaking to the 7-year-old girl. The girl confirmed that her parents repeatedly “bonked” her on the head because they were angry with her. The Olpins were arrested and booked into the Bonneville County Jail. They are scheduled to appear in court on March 24, 2026, for their preliminary hearings.
