A man known for playing Santa every year for major Christmas events in Polk County was arrested last week in connection with an undercover operation sting, according to an affidavit. Beginning April 20, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office in cooperation with various assisting law enforcement agencies, launched a multi-day undercover operation to attempt to identify and locate offenders using the internet for the exploitation of children. During the operation, a member of law enforcement posed as a “human trafficker” after posting an ad offering his teenage daughter for commercial sexual acts.
The affidavit states that 68-year-old Thomas Allen Hicks was taken into custody after responding to the ad. It also says the undercover officer told Hicks in a text exchange that the girl was 13 years old, receiving verbal confirmation that he was still interested before discussing payment.
On the following day, Hicks contacted the undercover officer from a business parking lot in Lakeland near the officer’s stated residence, despite not receiving an exact address. Deputies approached and arrested Hicks. The affidavit notes that Hicks and the officer agreed on $200 for one hour. At the time of arrest, law enforcement found $382 in Hicks’s wallet, including two $100 bills. Hicks admitted he saw the ad on a known prostitution site and understood it was for a 13-year-old girl. The affidavit states, “The suspect works for Tri-County Behavioral Health in Polk County in marketing, and plays Santa every year for major Christmas events in Polk County.” The City of Lakeland confirmed Hicks’ employment, stating he was retained as a contracted vendor for several public holiday events. The City emphasized its commitment to public safety and maintaining a secure environment. Larry Litte, communications director, reported that Tri-County Human Services is aware of Hicks’s arrest and has terminated his employment to ensure the safety of staff and clients. Hicks passed all required background checks prior to employment. As the legal process continues, Tri-County will not comment further but supports the ongoing investigation. Hicks did not have access to clients or their electronic health records and could not access child-related data during his employment. Tri-County Human Services, its Board, and management remain committed to a safe, professional, and respectful workplace. The Polk County Sheriff’s Office has charged Hicks with offenses related to human trafficking.
