ICE Arrests NJ Santa Impersonator Following Child Porn Charges

HAMILTON, NJ — ICE Homeland Security Investigations(HSI) Newark arrested a retired elementary school teacher who plays as Santa Claus for having and sharing child pornography.

"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. We commend the courageous individuals who came forward — their vigilance and willingness to speak out have played a vital part in protecting children and bringing offenders to justice."

Mark Paulino, 64, of Hamilton, was charged by the Mercer County Prosecutor's Office with one count of second-degree distribution of child sexual abuse material, one count of second-degree possession with the intent to distribute child sexual abuse material, one count of third-degree possession of child sexual abuse material, and one count of endangering the welfare of a child.

The prosecutor’s office has filed a motion to detain Paulino pending trial.

An investigation began after HSI Newark special agents in Trenton and detectives with the prosecutor’s Internet Crimes Against Children Unit got a tip that Paulino had uploaded multiple files of suspected child sexual abuse material to the internet, according to ICE.

On Dec. 5, authorities searched Paulino’s Hamilton Township home, where detectives seized multiple items of evidentiary value. Paulino was taken into custody without incident.

According to his website, Paulino recently retired from the Hamilton Township School District as an elementary school teacher and is now a professional Santa impersonator, available for photographs and private corporate and organizational events.

Hamilton Township School District Superintendent Dr. Scott Rocco told Patch, the district "has no comment at this time."

Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the prosecutor’s Internet Crimes Against Children Unit at 609-989-6568. Tips can also be submitted anonymously online to the prosecutor’s office here.