NEWARK, N.J. — Federal agents with ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Newark, working alongside local law enforcement, have arrested a Santa Claus impersonator accused of possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material, officials announced.
On Dec. 5, investigators executed a search warrant at the Hamilton Township home of Mark Paulino, a retired elementary school teacher and professional Santa performer. According to authorities, the investigation began after New Jersey State Police tipped off HSI Newark’s Trenton office and the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Internet Crimes Against Children Unit about files Paulino allegedly uploaded to the internet.
Paulino has been charged by the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office with one count each of second-degree distribution of child sexual abuse material, second-degree possession with intent to distribute, third-degree possession, and endangering the welfare of a child. Prosecutors have filed a motion to detain him pending trial.
“HSI special agents are unwavering in their mission to protect our communities from those who prey on the vulnerable, knowing that even individuals who seem trustworthy may be living a double life,” said HSI Newark Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy. “This case demonstrates the crucial role the public plays in reporting suspected child abuse or exploitation.”
Authorities said they seized multiple items of evidentiary value from Paulino’s residence. According to his personal website, Paulino had recently retired from the Hamilton Township School District and offered professional Santa Claus appearances for photographs and private events.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may follow as forensic analysis of the seized materials continues.
Federal and local agents arrested a Hamilton Township Santa impersonator accused of distributing child sexual abuse material after an HSI-led investigation.