In a shocking case that has sent shockwaves throughout southern California, a male nanny who advertised himself as a “manny” has been sentenced to over 700 years in prison for sexually assaulting 16 boys under his care. Matthew Antonio Zakrzewski, 34, was convicted of 34 felony counts including lewd and lascivious acts with a minor under 14, showing child pornography to a boy, and distributing pornography to minors for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct.

The crimes committed by Zakrzewski took place between January 2014 and May 2019 in various parts of Southern California. He targeted boys ranging in age from two to 12 years old, exploiting their trust and innocence for his own sick pleasure. Many of his crimes were filmed, providing evidence that led to his conviction.

Zakrzewski, who referred to himself as "the original Sitter Buddy" on his website, initially came under suspicion in May 2019 when a Laguna Beach couple reported that he had inappropriately touched their eight-year-old son. Following the report, he was located at a local airport and arrested after deplaning from an international flight.

Initially charged with three felony counts of lewd and lascivious acts with a minor under 14, one count of oral copulation of a child under 10, and one count of possession of child pornography, Zakrzewski's charges rapidly multiplied as more victims were identified through video evidence and tips from the public. In total, he faced 34 felony counts, including using a minor for sex acts, distributing pornography to minors, and attempted lewd or lascivious acts with a minor.

During the sentencing hearing, parents of the victims read impact statements, expressing their heartbreak and devastation over the abuse their children endured. One mother spoke of her regret and guilt for hiring Zakrzewski, saying, "I will be dealing with guilt for the rest of my life for letting this animal in my life." Another parent referred to Zakrzewski as a "master manipulator" who taught the victims to lie and keep secrets from their own parents.

Zakrzewski, however, showed no remorse during his court statement. Instead, he claimed that all the good times he shared with the children were "100 percent genuine." Orange County District Attorney Todd Spitzer condemned Zakrzewski as a "monster disguised by smiles and giggles," highlighting the long-lasting impact his actions have had on the lives of the young victims. "This is a case of shattered innocence and precious childhoods that were robbed from 17 little boys," Spitzer said.

Prosecutors presented damning evidence during the trial, including the discovery of an entire book on pedophilia on Zakrzewski's computer. They also revealed that the perpetrator had videotaped most of the crimes, further solidifying the case against him.

Ultimately, Zakrzewski was found guilty of all 34 felony charges and sentenced to "705 years to life plus two years and eight months." His conviction and lengthy sentence serve as a stark reminder of the importance of protecting children and holding those who prey on them accountable for their heinous actions.