HAMILTON TOWNSHIP, N.J. — A quiet Mercer County neighborhood is confronting disturbing allegations after a 64-year-old retired elementary schoolteacher, known locally for portraying Santa at holiday events, was arrested on multiple child sexual abuse material charges. The case has jolted parents, educators, and community members as investigators uncover what prosecutors describe as a deeply concerning digital trail.
Charges Stem From Online Investigation
According to the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, the investigation began on December 4, when the New Jersey State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Unit detected multiple uploads of suspected child sexual abuse material originating from a Hamilton Township address.
Detectives then launched a rapid inquiry that reportedly led them to Mark Paulino, a former Hamilton Township elementary schoolteacher who had recently retired and reinvented himself as a Santa performer for private and corporate events. Authorities said the nature of his engagement with children heightened the urgency of the investigation.
Paulino now faces 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. Prosecutors have also filed a motion to detain him pending trial.
Search Warrant Executed at the Home
Detectives, citing an urgent need to secure potential evidence, obtained a search warrant for Paulino’s residence. The operation, conducted on Friday, drew support from multiple specialized units including the Economic Crime, Cyber Crimes, and Domestic Violence Units, along with the Hamilton Police SWAT team.
Inside the home, investigators seized numerous pieces of digital evidence, though specific details were not disclosed due to the ongoing nature of the investigation. Prosecutor Janetta D. Marbrey noted that teams “worked around the clock” because of Paulino’s public-facing role with children.
Authorities later confirmed that Paulino was taken into custody without incident.
A Retired Teacher With a Holiday Role
On his own website, Paulino advertised his availability as a Santa character for photos and events, describing himself as a recently retired teacher from the Hamilton Township School District. That detail has intensified concern among parents who relied on him in both educational and seasonal settings.
Prosecutors emphasized that investigators are now encouraging anyone who interacted with Paulino — whether at school or during his Santa appearances — to come forward if they have concerns.
How Investigators Trace Material
While prosecutors did not reveal specifics of the digital tracking involved, ICAC units typically use sophisticated tools that identify known child sexual abuse files when they appear on peer-to-peer networks, cloud services, or other online platforms. When a match occurs, investigators trace the originating IP address, which can lead to a search warrant — as seen in this case.
Authorities confirmed that the files linked back to Paulino’s home, prompting the swift intervention.
Community Shock and Ongoing Questions
Parents expressed shock as news of the arrest circulated, particularly those who knew Paulino from his years in education or had seen him portray Santa at community events. Law enforcement agencies reassured residents that additional digital forensics work is underway and that investigators are committed to identifying any further victims.
The Prosecutor’s Office urged anyone with information — about either the online uploads or any concerns regarding Paulino’s contact with children — to contact the ICAC Unit directly. They also encouraged reports of any suspected online exploitation involving minors through the New Jersey ICAC Task Force tip line.
What Comes Next
Paulino is currently held pending a detention hearing, and prosecutors have not ruled out additional charges as evidence continues to be analyzed. Officials reiterated that the investigation remains “open and active,” with forensic examinations potentially taking weeks or months.
The case is expected to move forward through the Superior Court process in Mercer County, where judges will consider the severity of the charges, risk factors, and public safety concerns.
Community Call to Action
If you’re a parent, guardian, or caregiver, stay vigilant about children’s online interactions and report anything concerning to local authorities. Community safety starts with awareness — and your voice can help protect others.
