CHEROKEE, N.C. — A man who once portrayed Santa Claus at a North Carolina theme park has been arrested on charges of sexually abusing two young girls over the course of a year, authorities said. Bevier Hasbrouck Sleight III, 78, was taken into custody by the Cherokee Indian Police Department and faces multiple charges, including aggravated sexual abuse, abusive sexual contact, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor.
Sleight, known for his long white beard, previously played Santa at Santa’s Land Fun Park and Zoo in Cherokee. According to a criminal complaint obtained by Law&Crime, he allegedly abused two girls—one between the ages of 5 and 6, and the other between 6 and 7—over a period from March 2023 to March 2024.
The assaults reportedly took place at Sleight’s residence, which records indicate is located near the theme park. The park’s owner confirmed to Asheville ABC affiliate WLOS that Sleight no longer works at the facility.
Sleight allegedly performed oral sex on the victims and engaged in other sexual acts, according to the complaint. He remains in custody as the investigation continues.