Reports from today, April 29, 2026, confirm that a 68-year-old Lakeland man, well-known for playing Santa Claus at major community events, was arrested in a multi-agency child predator sting.
Details of the Arrest
Thomas Allen Hicks was taken into custody following a multi-day undercover operation conducted by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and other Florida law enforcement agencies. According to the arrest affidavit, Hicks responded to an online advertisement that he believed was posted by a parent offering a 13-year-old girl for sexual acts.
Investigators state that Hicks engaged in explicit text and phone conversations, eventually traveling to a designated location to meet the child before being intercepted by detectives.
Community Involvement
During his interview with authorities, Hicks reportedly admitted to the following:
- Santa Persona: He has played Santa Claus for many years at major Christmas events throughout the Lakeland community.
- Professional Role: He worked in marketing for Tri-County Behavioral Health in Polk County.
- Personal Life: He admitted to being married for over 50 years while regularly frequenting prostitution websites.
Charges and Investigation
Hicks is currently facing several felony charges, including:
- Human trafficking (forced sex trade with a minor under 18).
- Traveling to meet/using a computer to solicit a minor.
- Unlawful use of a two-way communication device.
Sheriff Grady Judd and Florida officials held a press conference earlier today to discuss the results of this broader operation, which targeted online predators across Central Florida. Hicks was one of several individuals arrested during the sting.