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Retiree Who Volunteers as Santa Claus Impersonator Found With Crack Pipe in Car: Police

An officer saw the crack pipe next to a Santa Claus costume during a traffic stop

A retiree who volunteers as a Santa Claus is facing drug charges alleging police found a crack pipe in his vehicle during a New Jersey traffic stop, police said.

South Hackensack police say 66-year-old Charles Smith, of Pompton Lakes, was arrested Monday after a traffic stop on Route 46. They say an officer saw the crack pipe next to a Santa Claus costume.

Authorities say a subsequent search of the vehicle turned up more drug paraphernalia, including empty bags of crack and heroin found alongside a hypodermic needle.

Multiple phones listed for Smith have been disconnected so he can't be reached for comment. It's unknown if Smith has an attorney who could comment for him.

Copyright AP - Associated Press
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