An Arkansas man who was working as a carnival ride operator at the Jefferson City Jaycees Cole County Fair has been charged with fourth-degree misdemeanor child molestation.
A Cole County Sheriff's Department probable cause statement said Joseph Spani, 53, is believed to have "subjected the victim and numerous other people to attempted sexual contact by masturbating under a blanket while operating a ride."
The incident in question reportedly occurred Thursday night.
Authorities said Spani has a lengthy criminal history.