Professional Santa Claus Arrested on Child Sexual Abuse Charges in NJ

A man who previously worked as an elementary school teacher and now performs seasonal work as a professional Santa Claus has been taken into custody in New Jersey. Authorities allege he was involved in possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material.Sixty-four-year-old Mark Paulino was apprehended by a collaborative multi-agency task force on Friday, December 5, at his residence in Hamilton Township.

Detectives acted rapidly on information received the previous day regarding an individual in Paulino's area suspected of uploading numerous files to the internet, which contained illicit imagery depicting the sexual exploitation of minors.

The press release issued by Mercer County Prosecutor Janetta D. Marbrey did not detail the methods used by law enforcement to trace the files back to Paulino's home.“According to his website, Paulino recently concluded his career as an elementary school instructor at the Hamilton Township School District, and currently offers services as a Santa character for various functions, including photographs and events for private parties, corporations, and organizations,” the press release explained. “Given his direct contact with children in this capacity, investigators dedicated continuous efforts to secure a search warrant.”Law enforcement executed a search of Paulino’s residence, and sources informed Us Weekly that electronic devices and additional items considered to be of "evidentiary value" were seized from the property last week during the investigation, which authorities confirm remains active.Paulino faces multiple charges: one count of second-degree distribution of child sexual abuse material, one count of second-degree possession with 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.According to Mabrey's statement, a conviction solely on the distribution and intent to distribute charges could carry a sentence of up to 20 years in state prison.Paulino's website states he "started working with children in 1984 as a substitute teacher," subsequently taking on roles as a lifeguard and swimming instructor.He also mentioned teaching special education classes prior to his retirement from the profession in 2021."My passion for canines motivated me to offer dog sitting and walking services," Paulino stated on his site. He added, "Currently, I am fulfilling my long-held ambition of portraying Santa Claus."On his website, he noted that he has been married for more than two decades to his wife, who also works in education."We are parents to two excellent young men," he continued, adding that he maintains an active lifestyle, enjoying snowshoeing, hiking, biking, and following football.Paulino's online profile also includes multiple video clips showing him in his Santa Claus attire.Paulino is being held without bail pending his trial. As of Tuesday, it was uncertain whether he had entered a plea regarding the allegations.Report: 'Family Feud' Participant Accused of Child AbuseUs Weekly could not confirm if Paulino has retained legal counsel to respond to the allegations.Us Weekly attempted to contact Paulino via listed phone numbers but received no reply before publication deadlines.Individuals possessing relevant information are encouraged to contact the prosecutor’s ICAC Unit at (609) 989-6568. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the website at www.mercercountyprosecutor.com.For support related to sexual assault, contact the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673).