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Nick "Santa" Claus being held on $500,000 bail after DUI arrest Monday morning.

December 23, 2008, Costa Mesa, CA  Orange County Sheriff’s deputies arrested an elderly man in Costa Mesa, CA on Monday December 22, suspected of driving under the influence of a controlled substance. Nick "Santa" Claus was arrested at the 19th block of Harbor Boulevard, a sheriff’s report stated.

A search of Claus’ large bag turned up a small sack of cocaine, as well as several empty bottles of charcoal filtered vodka. Reportedly, Claus claimed the drugs were “for a friend.” A young, scantily clad woman was found sleeping the backseat of the sleigh. When asked to identify the woman, Claus responded only, “Ho, ho ho.”

Claus’ sleigh was pulled over early Monday morning when deputies noticed the vehicle swerving in and out of traffic without Rudolph’s nose lit up. Upon closer inspection, officers noted that the vehicle was dragging what appeared to be a large animal corpse behind it. 

Officers later confirmed that the corpse was in fact one of Claus’ 8 reindeer, though his name has not yet been disclosed.  An autopsy of the reindeer cited cardiac arrest as the official cause of death. It is thought that cocaine use and physical exhaustion may have also played a part in the death. Authorities noted that, due to the defendant’s level of intoxication, this animal was most likely dragged behind the vehicle for several hours. 

Consequently, Claus was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of intoxicants and possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, the police report stated.  Claus remains in police custody and his bail is set at $500,000.  The judge noted that Claus’ case is unique, stating, “When narcotics are involved, Mr. Claus’ uncanny ability to reach large numbers of people in a very short period of time poses a particular threat to the safety of our communities.” He is awaiting an upcoming court hearing where he will face charges on the aforementioned drug-related crimes, as well as possible charges of animal cruelty and gross negligence.

Claus has been unavailable for comment.

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