A New Orleans man who legally changed his name to Santa Claus was jailed on allegations that he used a dating app to try to sexually prey on someone he believed to be a 15-year-old boy. The suspect, identified as Claus, 75, initiated contact with an undercover detective posing as a minor during a sting operation conducted over the weekend by police in Kenner, a suburb of New Orleans.
Details of the Sting Operation
According to a statement from the Kenner Police Department, Claus allegedly engaged in explicit online conversations, discussed sexual acts with the person he believed to be underage, and sent illicit photos of himself exposed. He then arranged an in-person meeting in Kenner, home to New Orleans' international airport. When he arrived, investigators confronted and arrested him without resistance.
Police Chief Keith Conley told the Guardian that Claus's physical appearance matches that of the traditional Santa Claus, which he called alarming given the nature of the alleged crime. Conley noted that investigators found images of Claus posing as Saint Nick, adding that the arrest serves as a cautionary tale for parents about individuals who dress as Santa to gain access to children.
Charges and Background
Claus faces charges of illegal computer-aided solicitation of a minor and indecent behavior with a juvenile. Conley revealed that Claus was formerly known as George Quigley and lived in Texas before moving to New Orleans. The suspect legally changed his name to Santa Claus, a practice that other individuals across the US have also undertaken, according to news reports.
Claus was one of 11 suspects arrested during the sting operation. Police obtained warrants for an additional 10 suspects who were not immediately captured. Charges against other suspects include criminal grooming behavior, in addition to the same counts filed against Claus.
Current Status
As of Tuesday morning, Claus remained jailed in New Orleans. Bail information was not immediately available. The Guardian left a message for comment on a telephone number associated with Claus.
