A male nanny who advertised himself as a “manny” and worked for families across southern California before being convicted of sexually assaulting 16 young boys in his care has been handed a prison sentence of more than 700 years.
Matthew Antonio Zakrzewski, who was also convicted of showing child sexual abuse material to a boy, received his punishment at a sentencing hearing on Friday, California prosecutors said in a statement.
Prosecutors said he received a total of 707 years in prison in connection with more than 30 felonies for which he was convicted in October. He delivered a statement to the court on Friday in which he did not apologize, prosecutors said.
“I prided myself on bringing smiles to your children and all the good times we shared were 100% genuine,” the 34-year-old Zakrzewski remarked as victims’ parents covered their ears and wept, according to prosecutors.
Zakrzewski was arrested in May 2019 after a couple told Laguna Beach police he touched their son inappropriately. More alleged victims were identified, and Zakrzewski was ultimately charged with 34 felonies, including lewd and lascivious acts with a minor.
Victims ranged from two to 12 years old, investigators said. A jury convicted Zakrzewski on all counts, according to the local district attorney.
“These young boys were forced to endure unimaginable terror as a result of the ultimate betrayal by a babysitter,” the district attorney, Todd Spitzer, has previously said.
Zakrzewski, of Costa Mesa, claimed that he was more than a “manny” who watched over children. He also advertised that he would provide a fun “buddy” experience for those put in his care.
In the US, call or text the Childhelp abuse hotline on 800-422-4453 or visit their website for more resources and to report child abuse or DM for help. For adult survivors of child abuse, help is available at ascasupport.org. In the UK, the NSPCC offers support to children on 0800 1111, and adults concerned about a child on 0808 800 5000. The National Association for People Abused in Childhood (Napac) offers support for adult survivors on 0808 801 0331. In Australia, children, young adults, parents and teachers can contact the Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800, or Bravehearts on 1800 272 831, and adult survivors can contact Blue Knot Foundation on 1300 657 380. Other sources of help can be found at Child Helplines International
The Associated Press contributed reporting
