North Carolina Man Charged with Child Abuse

Bevier Hasbrouck Sleight III, a 78-year-old man known for portraying Santa Claus at Santa’s Land Fun Park in North Carolina, has been arrested on 13 counts of child abuse, including aggravated sexual abuse and contributing to the delinquency of minors. The incidents reportedly occurred at his home between March 2023 and March 2024, involving several children aged 5 to 7. Local authorities have linked Sleight to Caroline Roland, a woman accused of running a child trafficking ring, who is also facing multiple charges related to child abuse. Residents expressed shock over the allegations, as Sleight was a familiar and seemingly friendly figure in the community. As the case develops, Sleight is currently out on bond with restrictions, while the investigation continues into potential further victims and connections to Roland's trafficking activities.