New Jersey ‘Santa Performer’ Retired Teacher Arrested for Child S3xual Abuse Material
New Jersey ‘Santa Performer’ Retired Teacher Arrested for Child S3xual Abuse Material
New Jersey ‘Santa Performer’ Retired Teacher Arrested for Child S3xual Abuse Material
Authorities in Mercer County, New Jersey, have announced the arrest of a 64-year-old man who worked as a Santa performer and recently retired as an elementary school teacher, following allegations of possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material.
The Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, led by Prosecutor Janetta Marbrey, identified the suspect as Mark Paulino, a resident of Hamilton Township.
According to prosecutors, Paulino has been charged with 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.
The investigation began on December 4, when the New Jersey State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Unit alerted local detectives to suspicious uploads of child pornography traced to a Hamilton Township residence. Detectives later identified Paulino as the individual responsible.
Prosecutors revealed that Paulino had recently retired from the Hamilton Township School District. His personal website also listed him as a professional Santa performer, advertising availability for private parties, corporate functions, and community events.
“Due to his active engagement with young children in that role, detectives worked around the clock to obtain a search warrant,” the prosecutor’s office stated.
Investigators executed the warrant on December 5, arresting Paulino and seizing multiple items from his home. Authorities said he was taken into custody without incident.
CBS News reported that the second-degree charges carry a potential sentence of five to ten years in prison, along with fines that could total up to $150,000. Prosecutors have already filed a motion seeking to keep him detained while legal proceedings continue.
Officials said the investigation remains ongoing and urged anyone with relevant information or concerning past interactions to contact law enforcement.
New Jersey ‘Santa Performer’ Retired Teacher Arrested for Child S3xual Abuse Material
