A man known for playing Santa each year at Polk County’s major Christmas event was arrested last week in connection with a sting operation, according to an affidavit. Starting April 20, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with various supporting law enforcement agencies, began a multi-day undercover operation to attempt to identify and locate criminals who use the Internet to exploit children. During the operation, a law enforcement official posed as a “human trafficker” after posting an advertisement inviting teenage daughters to engage in commercial sex acts.
The affidavit states 68-year-old Thomas Allen Hicks was taken into custody after responding to the advertisement. The undercover agent also told Hicks in a text exchange that the girl was 13 years old and received verbal confirmation that he was still interested before discussing payment.
The next day, Hicks contacted an undercover officer from a Lakeland business parking lot near the officer’s official residence, even though he had not received a precise address. Officers approached Hicks and arrested him. The affidavit states Hicks and the officer agreed to pay $200 an hour. At the time of his arrest, law enforcement found $382 in Hicks’ wallet, including two $100 bills. Ms Hicks admitted she saw the ad on a known prostitution site and understood it was for a 13-year-old girl. “The suspect works in the marketing department at Tri-County Behavioral Health in Polk County and plays Santa each year at Polk County’s major Christmas event,” the affidavit states. The city of Lakeland confirmed Hicks’ employment and said he will remain as a contract vendor for several holiday events. The City emphasized its commitment to public safety and maintaining a safe environment. Communications Director Larry Ritte reported that the Tri-County Human Services Department is aware of Hicks’ arrest and has terminated his employment to ensure the safety of staff and customers. Hicks passed all required background checks prior to employment. Due to the ongoing legal process, Tri-County will not comment further, but supports the ongoing investigation. Mr. Hicks had no access to clients or their electronic health records, and had no access to child-related data while on duty. Tri-County Human Services, its Board of Directors, and management remain committed to a safe, professional and respectful workplace. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office charged Hicks with human trafficking-related crimes.
