This article contains delicate material that some readers may find upsetting. It’s best to use caution.
According to a statement issued by the provincial police on Wednesday, a 71-year-old veteran Quebec City Santa Claus imposter has been charged with various sexual assault and drug-related offences.
Réjean Bacon was arrested and charged at the Quebec City courthouse with voyeurism, sexual assault, possession and trafficking of narcotics, procuring sexual services and breaching conditions of a prior arrest.
According to a statement from the Sûreté du Québec (SQ) provincial police, investigators think he sexually abused at least five young women.
According to TVA, Bacon has spent the past 40 years dressing up as Santa Claus throughout the holiday season in Quebec City’s charming and popular Quartier Petit Champlain neighbourhood.
Photos on what appears to be his Facebook page show the man dressed as Santa Claus, and his occupation is indicated as “Père Nol” in the profile.
Bacon was initially detained in May of last year after the SQ connected him to a sexual exploitation probe.
His computers were taken after police acquired a search warrant for his home. He was given a conditional release.
MORE READING The culprit in a murder and sex assault in Quebec from decades ago might have other victims: police
On the devices, investigators discovered criminal evidence that served as justification for this week’s charges.
According to police, the case is being handled as a “serial crime investigation” with the possibility of further victims.
Any information that would help identify any of the five known victims cannot be published due to a publication prohibition.
Calling the provincial police criminal information centre at 1-800-659-4264 is suggested if you have any information regarding the suspect.
Help is available online if you or someone you know has been the victim of sexual assault.
Quebec police prosecute a Santa Claus imposter with sexual assault and voyeurism.
About Author
