SCARBOROUGH CHILD RAPIST JAILED FOR 21 YEARS SHOWING NO REMORSE
A 'depraved' child abuser from Scarborough who raped and took indecent images of a toddler has been sentenced to 21 years in prison.The lead detective involved in prosecuting John Paul Zegstroo, 28, who hails from Eastfield, praised the bravery of the young victim and her family, who have endured 'unimaginable trauma'.
Zegstroo was found guilty of eight charges committed between December 2018 and March 2020, when the child was just two and three years old.
These charges included two counts of child rape, sexual assault of a child under 13, inciting a child to engage in sexual activity, and taking indecent images.
He was sentenced at York Crown Court and is required to register as a sex offender for life, as well as being subject to a Sexual Harm Prevention Order.
The investigation was led by Detective Constable Laura Carroll from Scarborough CID, who stated: “The poor young victim and her family have endured unimaginable trauma caused by this depraved man.
I have nothing but admiration for their supportive and courageous stance throughout this distressing process.
I sincerely hope the girl and her family can now begin to rebuild their lives with ample support.” She also commented on Zegstroo's lack of remorse, saying: “He has shown absolutely no remorse or acceptance of his crimes.
He put the victim and her family through the ordeal of a trial when he knew the evidence against him was overwhelming.
Additionally, he attempted to disrupt court proceedings multiple times by claiming illness, which caused further distress.
Zegstroo will be closely monitored in prison for the rest of his days.” The victim's mother expressed gratitude towards the police, stating: “Our family is so thankful for the diligent work of Scarborough CID in bringing us justice and for believing in the victim.”
