‘Santa Claus’ thief put on naughty list by VPD

Last updated: September 9, 2026

VICKSBURG, Miss. (VDN) — The Vicksburg Police Department has put a pretend ‘Santa Claus’ behind bars after he robbed local businesses in the Vicksburg Mall.

The would be caper occurred on Friday, Sept. 4, at around 3:00 a.m., later that day officers received reports that multiple stores inside the mall had been broken into.

Twas the night before Friday, when all through the mall, not a business was open, not even the hall.

During the investigation, officers reviewed surveillance footage and observed a White male, later identified as Joshua Lyles, 35, dressed in a related coverage Claus costume.

The policemen were searching sure something would show, then cameras revealed twas the holiday foe.

VPD officers canvassed the surrounding area and located Lyles a short time later. At the time he was located, Lyles was in possession of items believed to have been stolen from businesses inside the mall.

They found Santa sitting with all of his loot, he was caught as red-handed as his favorite suit.

Lyles was taken into custody in connection with the burglaries. He was charged with felony forced burglary committed between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.

VPD sends the message for all to be good, “Stop stealing from others, and behave as you should!”

The incident remains under investigation by the Vicksburg Police Department.

VDN assumes the real Santa Claus will continue to leave gifts this Christmas instead of taking them. VPD will help to ensure everyone, including the Jolly Old Elf, obey the laws this holiday season.