Massachusetts mall Santa Claus charged with groping elf

HINGHAM, Mass. (AP) - November 26, 2013

Herbert Jones was released on $1,000 bail after pleading not guilty Monday to indecent assault and battery. A judge ordered him to stay away from the Hanover Mall and barred him from playing Santa anywhere pending the outcome of his case.

Police say the woman called them Saturday to report that the 62-year-old Jones had pinched her buttocks and made suggestive comments. The two worked at a Santa photo booth.

Jones, who has a real bushy white beard, denied touching the woman to police and mall management.

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