A 64-year-old man in the United States who worked as a “Santa for hire” has been arrested in New Jersey for allegedly possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material.
The suspect identified as Mark Paulino was arrested on Monday and charged with possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material, as well as endangering the welfare of a child.
Mercer County officials said the investigation began on December 4, 2025, after detectives received a tip-off about suspicious online activities involving the upload of child pornography from a residence in Hamilton Township.
Following the tip, investigators identified Paulino, a retired elementary school teacher, as the individual linked to the uploads.
Police disclosed that Paulino had been working as a professional Santa Claus for hire, appearing at photo sessions and at community events, a role that brought him into frequent and direct contact with children.
“Because his role required close and repeated interaction with minors, detectives worked tirelessly to obtain a search warrant,” authorities said.
The warrant was executed on December 5, during which investigators recovered several items believed to be vital to the case. Paulino was taken into custody without resistance.
Prosecutors have applied for his continued detention pending trial, while investigations into the case remain ongoing.
US Police arrest ‘Santa over possession of child abuse materials
