A Lakeland man who was a familiar sight in a Santa suit at Polk County holiday events is now facing serious criminal charges after a multi-agency undercover sting, authorities say. The 68-year-old was arrested in a Lakeland parking lot after allegedly arranging to meet someone he believed was a minor, according to court documents. His arrest was one of nearly 20 made in a sweep targeting adults accused of using the internet to solicit children.
Polk County detectives identified the suspect as Thomas Allen Hicks, 68. Investigators say he is facing allegations that include human trafficking for the forced sex trade involving someone under 18, traveling to meet a minor, unlawful use of a two-way communications device, and using a computer to solicit a parent or guardian. Those charges and other case details are outlined in an arrest affidavit reported by WTSP.
The arrests stem from "Operation Child Protector VIII," a multi-day undercover operation the sheriff's office says began April 20 and included several partner agencies. According to prosecutors and police, 19 suspects were booked in total, with 16 facing charges of traveling to meet a minor for sex and three charged with human trafficking, as reported by FOX 13.
What the affidavit says
The arrest affidavit states that an undercover officer posted an online ad offering a teenage girl for commercial sex, then exchanged text messages with Hicks after he responded. According to the document, the undercover officer said the "daughter" was 13. The affidavit says Hicks replied, "wow, i didn't know she was so young! i liked her looks," then continued discussing payment and arranged a meeting spot. Deputies arrested him at the agreed location, according to the affidavit reported by WTSP.
Known in the community
The affidavit and local coverage identify Hicks as a marketing employee of Tri-County Human Services who often appeared as Santa at county holiday gatherings. Tri-County lists an administrative office in Lakeland and describes itself as a behavioral health provider serving Polk, Highlands, and Hardee counties, according to Tri-County Human Services and reporting by FOX 13.
Legal context
The charges remain allegations, and anyone arrested is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court. Human trafficking is defined under Florida law, including specific language on minors and commercial sex acts. Full statutory definitions and potential penalties appear in Florida Statute 787.06.
What’s next
Polk County detectives say the investigation is still active, and the case will proceed through the local court system as prosecutors review the affidavit and formalize charges. Authorities have not released additional names or locations associated with the other arrests in Operation Child Protector VIII. Law enforcement officials say more information may be made public as the broader probe continues.
