Matthew Antonio Zakrzewski, 34, of Costa Mesa, California, was convicted and sentenced to 705 years to life plus two years and eight months for sexually assaulting 16 young boys under his care and showing a 17th boy child pornography with the intent to also sexually assault him. Zakrzewski served as a male nanny for families across Southern California and operated under the name “the original Sitter Buddy” on his website. He also described himself as a “manny” who provided a variety of babysitting services, including mentorships, big brother relationships, and offering overnight and vacation babysitting.
The crimes took place between January 1, 2014, and May 17, 2019. Zakrzewski was arrested on May 17, 2019, by Laguna Beach Police Department detectives at a local airport after deplaning an international flight. Following his arrest, investigators asked for the public’s help in locating any other potential victims. Additional victims were identified through video evidence and tips from the public, resulting in the filing of additional charges against Zakrzewski.
Zakrzewski was charged with a total of 34 felony counts, including lewd and lascivious acts with a minor, oral copulation of a child, possession of child pornography, using a minor for sex acts, distributing pornography to a minor for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct, and an attempted lewd or lascivious act with a minor. A jury convicted Zakrzewski of all 34 felonies.
In victim impact statements during his sentencing, parents of the victimized boys expressed their outrage at Zakrzewski’s deception and manipulation. Some parents compared Zakrzewski to an animal they blamed themselves for letting into their homes. The mother of a 2-year-old victim wore a backpack with her son’s photograph on it while she gave her victim impact statement, expressing her heartbreak over never being able to meet the child he should have been if he had not been subjected to the trauma of being sexually assaulted.
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During his statement in court, Zakrzewski did not apologize and even boasted about the positive impact he claimed to have had on the children in his care. This statement caused several parents to cover their ears and weep as they listened.
The Orange County District Attorney, Todd Spitzer, described the case as a “shattered innocence and precious childhoods that were robbed from 17 little boys.” He expressed his concern for the emotional trauma experienced by the children and their families and stressed the importance of supporting the families as they attempt to rebuild their lives after such a horrifying ordeal.
The crimes came to light when a Laguna Beach couple reported to the police that their babysitter, Zakrzewski, had touched their 8-year-old son inappropriately. The couple had hired Zakrzewski to care for their child through one of his babysitting websites. The Laguna Beach Police Department’s investigation led to the identification of a second 7-year-old victim in the City of Los Angeles and ten more boys from across Southern California.
Senior Deputy District Attorney Juliet Oliver of the Sexual Assault Unit prosecuted the case. She emphasized the calculated manipulation and deceit employed by Zakrzewski to gain access to the children and engage in his heinous acts.
The impact of this case goes beyond just the heinous acts. It raises concerns about the safety of children and the responsibility of adults to ensure the well-being of the most vulnerable members of society. It serves as a reminder of the importance of thorough background checks, monitoring, and vigilance of anyone entrusted with the care of children.
The criminal justice system carried out its duty in holding Zakrzewski accountable for his actions and ensuring justice for the victims and their families. The sentence imposed reflects the severity of the crimes committed and the need to protect innocent children from such predators.
This case serves as a painful reminder of the importance of safeguarding the well-being of children and the need for continuous efforts to protect them from harm. It also highlights the resilience and courage of the families and victims as they work to heal from the trauma inflicted by Zakrzewski.
