ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Newark, in cooperation with local law enforcement, arrested Mark Paulino in New Jersey on December 5. Paulino is a self-employed Santa Claus impersonator and a former elementary school teacher. He is accused of possessing and distributing child sexual abuse material.
According to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, Paulino faces charges including one count of second-degree distribution of child sexual abuse material, one count of second-degree possession with intent to distribute such material, one count of third-degree possession of child sexual abuse material, and one count of endangering the welfare of a child. Authorities have requested that Paulino be detained while awaiting trial.
“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.”
The investigation began after HSI Newark agents and detectives from the prosecutor’s Internet Crimes Against Children Unit received information from New Jersey State Police indicating that Paulino had uploaded multiple files suspected to contain child sexual abuse material online.
Paulino recently retired as an elementary school teacher from Hamilton Township School District and now works as a professional Santa impersonator for photos and private events.
Authorities seized several items during their search at Paulino’s Hamilton Township home on December 5.
Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact the prosecutor’s Internet Crimes Against Children Unit at 609-989-6568 or submit tips anonymously online through the prosecutor’s office website.
HSI has operated Project iGuardian since 2014 as its main outreach initiative for educating the public about online child exploitation risks. More information on how to report these crimes can be found at https://www.dhs.gov/know2protect/how-to-report.
Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in court.
