“Santa Claus” Faces Child Porn Charges

When it comes to child pornography charges, anyone can be accused. It could be the person you’d least expect. It could even be Santa Claus.

A Florida man known as Santa Claus has pleaded guilty to child porn charges. The 80-year-old man from St. Cloud recently appeared in federal court. He pled guilty to two charges of child porn possession and receipt of child porn. In his mugshot, he could be seen wearing a red jail jumpsuit over a white long-sleeve shirt.

The man was found with hundreds of images and videos on his computer. The content showed sexual abuse on children as young as infants and toddlers.

Investigators originally raided the man’s home in March as part of a Homeland Security child pornography investigation. At the time, his adult son, who was also under investigation, shot himself. The Orange County Medical Examiner later confirmed that they had responded to a “death call” at the home, as the son was found dead from the gunshot wound.

At the time, neighbors were surprised to see as many as 30 law enforcement officers from multiple agencies swarm the home, which is near Canoe Creek Road.

It is believed that the father and son duo created their own child porn and uploaded it online.

Detectives found videos that appeared to have been secretly recorded. They showed multiple young children using the restroom and changing clothes. At least two of the victims appeared to be children who lived in the same neighborhood as the father and son. The son allegedly produced many of the sexually explicit videos, while “Santa Claus” uploaded them.

The man is currently being held in the Seminole County Jail. Neighbors say he was known to frequently dress as “Santa.” He could face as many as 40 years in prison. His sentencing is scheduled for November 6.

How People Lure Children

Children are vulnerable, and many adults know how to lure them in for their own sexual desires. One trick people may use is name recognition. Savvy adults may look for backpacks, clothing, sports equipment and other belongings with name tags. This can allow predators to call the child by name, creating a false sense of familiarity and trust.

There is also the pet lure. Many children love animals and may be caught off guard when asked to help look for a “lost” puppy or kittens. An adult may even try to show them a more exotic animal, like a ferret.

There is also the playmate lure, which uses other kids to lure in children. People may lure kids by providing toys, sports equipment, favorite foods, or a swimming pool.

Contact a Legal Professional for Help

Sometimes people try to lure children by dressing as Santa, the Easter Bunny, or other well-loved characters. This is not right, but those who are accused of this need to ensure they seek a solid legal defense.

A Florida child pornography lawyer from the Law Offices of Gilbert A. Schaffnit can provide you with legal knowledge and advice. We are available 24/7 to assist you. Schedule a consultation today by filling out the online form or calling (352) 505-1799.

Source:

wfla.com/news/florida/florida-man-nicknamed-santa-claus-pleads-guilty-to-child-porn-charges-report/