A 64-year-old Hamilton Township man has been arrested in the United States after investigators allegedly linked him to the possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material.
Gatekeepers News reports that the suspect, identified as Mark Paulino, had been working as a “Santa for hire” at holiday events — a job that frequently placed him in close contact with children. Mercer County officials said the investigation began on December 4 after detectives were alerted to suspicious online activity involving the upload of child pornography from a residence in Hamilton Township.
Investigators soon identified Paulino, a retired elementary school teacher, as the individual behind the activity.
Police said Paulino had presented himself online as a retired teacher and had “recently performed as Santa Claus for photographs and private, corporate, and organisational events.”
“Because this role involved direct, repeated contact with children, detectives worked around the clock to secure a search warrant,” authorities added.
Officers executed the warrant on December 5, seizing multiple digital devices and other items believed to be evidence. Paulino was taken into custody without incident and charged with possession and distribution of child sexual abuse materials, as well as endangering the welfare of a child.
Prosecutors have moved to detain him pending trial. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and have urged anyone with relevant information to contact law enforcement.
