A 64-year-old New Jersey man who frequently portrayed Santa Claus at holiday events has been arrested on charges related to child sexual abuse material, prompting serious concern over his repeated interactions with children.
Mark Paulino, of Hamilton Township, was taken into custody on Monday and charged with possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material, as well as endangering the welfare of a child, according to reports published Tuesday by the Daily Star.
Mercer County officials said the investigation began on December 4, 2025, after detectives were alerted to suspicious online activity involving the upload of child pornography from a home in Hamilton Township.
The probe quickly led investigators to Paulino, a retired elementary school teacher who had recently been working as a “Santa for hire” for private photoshoots, corporate engagements, and community events.
Authorities stressed the urgency of the case given Paulino’s extensive and direct contact with children in his seasonal Santa role. “Because this role involved direct, repeated contact with children, detectives worked around the clock to secure a search warrant,” officials said.
The warrant was executed on December 5, during which police seized multiple electronic devices and other evidence. Paulino was arrested without incident.
Prosecutors have filed a motion to keep him detained pending trial, and the investigation remains active. Authorities are urging anyone with further information to come forward.
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