A routine traffic stop in Fulton County, Ohio, took a delightfully unexpected turn just days before Christmas. A patrol officer approached a speeding vehicle, fully prepared to issue a citation – and found Santa Claus at the wheel.
The officer’s initial reaction was disbelief, quickly followed by laughter. There, behind the wheel of a car, sat a man sporting a full white beard and a traditional red suit. The surprise didn’t end there.
“Santa’s got a CCW? Times are rough,” the officer chuckled, learning the jolly man legally possessed a Concealed Carry Weapon permit. It was a stark reminder that even legendary figures must consider safety in the modern world.
After a friendly warning about the importance of safe driving, even for those with urgent deliveries, the officer let Santa continue on his way. A playful exchange followed, with the deputy joking, “There goes my presents!”
Meanwhile, a strikingly different image of Father Christmas emerged online. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement released an AI-generated video depicting Santa in a decidedly unconventional role.
This digital Santa traded his cozy suit for tactical gear – military-style gloves, a bulletproof vest emblazoned with “ICE,” and even appeared to be checking weapon pouches. The video presented a jarring contrast to the traditional, benevolent figure.
The unsettling imagery continued with Santa shown handcuffing an individual, followed by a message promoting a program offering financial incentives for voluntary departure from the country. The video concluded with a stark “Merry Christmas.”
The ICE video, garnering hundreds of thousands of views, sparked considerable discussion and debate, highlighting a dramatic shift in how a beloved symbol was utilized and perceived.
