Ex-Santa Claus impersonator charged with 13 counts of child abuse
78-year-old former Santa linked to child trafficking ring in North Carolina
A 78-year-old former Santa Claus impersonator faces 13 charges of child abuse and is suspected of links to a child trafficking ring in North Carolina, according to police. Bevier Hasbrouck Sleight, who portrayed Santa at Santa’s Land Fun Park and Zoo in Cherokee, North Carolina, is charged with aggravated sexual abuse, offensive touching, and contributing to the delinquency, indiscipline, neglect, or abuse of minors among other charges, as per reports.
The incidents occurred at Sleight’s home, situated behind Santa’s Land, between March 2023 and March 2024, involving children as young as 5 years old, according to court documents. Police discovered 27 weapons inside Sleight’s RV.
Local residents, familiar with the white-bearded Sleight from his years in the Santa costume, were taken aback by the arrest. “I’m just amazed and shocked. I would have never thought that,” said Kim Lambert, who met Sleight several times. Santa Land, located on her family’s property, confirmed Sleight no longer works there. “He’s just really always been a super nice person,” Lambert added, expressing her disbelief.
NORTH CAROLINA THEME PARK SANTA ARRESTED FOR SEXUALLY ABUSING TWO YOUNG GIRLS
A Santa Claus impersonator at a North Carolina theme park allegedly sexually abused two young girls over the course of a year at his home.
The Cherokee Indian Police Department arrested 78-year-old… pic.twitter.com/iwUw0Ks3e6
— Mark Chapman (@MC_IBTimesSG) September 11, 2024
The Cherokee Indian Police Department connected Sleight’s arrest to the case of Caroline Roland, 39, who allegedly led a child trafficking ring. Police identified Sleight as one of Roland’s customers. Roland, arrested on June 5, faces 11 charges, including child abuse, maiming, assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, and inflicting serious injury.
Court documents reveal Roland severely injured a 5-year-old girl by slamming the child’s hands on a table, resulting in multiple broken bones. She then allegedly threw the girl to the ground and repeatedly smashed her face into the floor until she stopped breathing. The child was resuscitated through CPR and required surgery, with additional injuries discovered at the hospital.
Neighbors reported suspicious activity at Roland’s home, noticing frequent strangers in their typically quiet neighbourhood. Roland’s next court date is scheduled for 23 October.
For those who have been sexually assaulted in New York, free and confidential crisis counselling is available at 1-800-942-6906. Outside the state, the 24/7 National Sexual Assault Hotline can be reached at 1-800-656-4673.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Who is Bevier Hasbrouck Sleight?
A 78-year-old former Santa Claus impersonator facing 13 counts of child abuse and linked to a child trafficking ring.
Where did the incidents involving Sleight occur?
At Sleight’s home behind Santa’s Land Fun Park and Zoo in Cherokee, North Carolina.
What charges is Caroline Roland facing?
Child abuse, maiming, assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill, and inflicting serious injury.
How did neighbors describe Roland’s home?
They suspected suspicious activity due to strangers frequently visiting the typically quiet neighborhood.
What should you do if you have been sexually assaulted and need help?
In New York, call 1-800-942-6906. Outside New York, dial the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.
