Santa Claus Impersonator Arrested for Human Trafficking

0:00A 68-year-old Santa Claus impersonator in Polk County, Florida just got hit with a serious arrest for human trafficking. Tom Hicks, who's been a holiday staple, was nabbed during an undercover sting by the Sheriff's Office. Officials dropped body cam footage showing the takedown straight from the Polk County Sheriff's Office. This comes after they ran the operation to crack down on trafficking rings in the area. Locals knew Hicks as the jolly guy waving from parade floats, especially at the Lakeland Christmas Parade, where he's played Santa for over a decade. Sheriff Grady Judd called him out by name in the release. The video flips between Hicks and full Santa gear during the parade and him getting hauled away in cuffs. No word yet on charges or court dates, but it's got everyone talking. This twist on holiday cheer hits different proof nobody's who they seem sometimes. Keep your eyes peeled for updates as this unfolds. I'm Cory with the story and you've been listening to Tampa Bay News today, AI-powered local news.