A 64-year-old New Jersey man who worked as a “Santa for hire” has been arrested on charges of possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material, raising concerns over his frequent contact with children during holiday events.
Authorities identified the suspect as Mark Paulino of Hamilton Township. He was taken into custody on Monday and charged with possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material, as well as endangering the welfare of a child.
According to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, the investigation began on December 4, 2025, after detectives received information about suspicious online activity involving the upload of child exploitation material from a Hamilton Township residence.
Investigators soon identified Paulino, a retired elementary school teacher, as the person allegedly involved.
Officials said Paulino had promoted himself online as a retired educator and had recently worked as a Santa Claus performer for private events, corporate functions, and holiday photo sessions — positions that brought him into regular contact with children.
“Because this role involved direct, repeated contact with children, detectives worked around the clock to secure a search warrant,” authorities said.
Police executed the warrant on December 5 and seized multiple digital devices and other evidence before arresting Paulino without incident.
Prosecutors have filed a motion to detain him pending trial. The investigation remains ongoing, and authorities are urging anyone with relevant information to come forward.
