Hanover Mall Santa Charged With Indecent Assault And Battery

HANOVER (CBS) --- A mall Santa is in hot water after allegedly pinching the behind of a fellow Santaland employee.

According to police, Herbert G. Jones, 62, of Assonet, was arrested Saturday evening after he assaulted a woman who takes the pictures at the mall display.

The woman told police it happened as she walked by Santa seated in his chair. She told police Jones then said he wished he was younger.

Jones is charged with indecent assault and battery on a person over 14.

The incident didn't sit well with parents who shop at the mall.

"Especially when you're involved in a job with a lot of kids, you don't want kids to be around someone like that," said mall shopper Nicole Porter.

WBZ-TV called a phone number listed in Herbert Jones' name. A woman who answered said they are not interested in talking right now as they need to speak with their attorneys.

A WBZ-TV reporter who approached Jones as he pulled out of his driveway Monday afternoon, was given the middle finger.

New Jersey-based Cherry Hill Photo, the company that employs Jones released a statement Monday afternoon. The company specializes in providing Santa photo services to malls.

We have been made aware that an allegation of improper conduct has been lodged against the person portraying Santa at Hanover Mall by another employee working at the Santa photography concession. This allegation has been denied by the individual portraying Santa.

A spokesperson for Cherry Hill Photo has informed us that a comprehensive background report had been completed on the individual portraying Santa. The report indicates that he is clear of any prior arrests or convictions.

Jones was arraigned Monday in Hingham District Court. As if Christmas isn't busy enough, Jones will be back in court Christmas Eve.

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