A Santa Claus hired by Hanover Mall to spread Xmas cheer finds himself in hot water after spreading some unwanted cheer to an 18-year-old elf. 62-year-old Herbert G. Jones of Assonet was arrested at about 5:30 p.m on Saturday after police say his elf photographer lodged a complaint. The part time Kris Kringle now faces indecent assault and battery charges, authorities say.
Cherry Hill Photos, the company that employs Santa and his helper, released the following statement: “We have been made aware that an allegation of improper conduct has been lodged against the person portraying Santa at Hanover Mall by another employee working at the Santa photography concession. This allegation has been denied by the individual portraying Santa. Both persons are employed by Cherry Hill Photo, a New Jersey company specializing in providing Santa Photographic services to the mall during the holiday season. A spokesperson for Cherry Hill Photo has informed us that a comprehensive background report had been completed on the individual portraying Santa. The report indicates that he is clear of any prior arrests or convictions. The investigation is ongoing.”
A spokesman for the Plymouth DA said that under the terms set this morning by Hingham District Court Judge Francis Marini, Jones cannot work as a Santa while he is out on $1,000 bail,
He is due back in court on Christmas Eve.
No word as to why the shopping mall Santa made an appearance prior to Thanksgiving.
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