Man Poses as Teen, Gets 85-120 Years for Sexual Assault in Nebraska Schools

​​​​​A Nebraska man, 27-year-old Zachary Scheich, was sentenced to 85 to 120 years in prison for committing sex crimes while posing as a 17-year-old student named Zak Hess at two Lincoln high schools. The prosecutor described him as a "predator of the worst kind," and he will not be eligible for parole for over 40 years. Scheich engaged in his criminal acts for around 54 days at Northwest High School and Southeast High School and is required to register as a sex offender.

Impersonation and Deception

Scheich's crimes occurred off school grounds, but he also cost the school district over $6,000 by creating fake documents and a lengthy backstory to disguise himself as a high school student. The behaviors he displayed made him a dangerous predator, as he targeted, groomed, and lured children via social media while posing as their peer.

Dangerous Manipulation

During sentencing, Deputy County Attorney Amber Scholte highlighted how Scheich gained the children's trust by posing as their friend and, in some cases, their boyfriend for his own sexual gratification. Moreover, the children felt confident in their ability to protect themselves from adults inappropriately engaging with them, as they were aware of the dangers. However, they were unable to recognize the threat Scheich posed to them due to his deceptive behavior.

Legal Proceedings

Scheich pleaded no contest to multiple counts of sexual assault and other charges. Judge Ideus emphasized how the children had no reason to suspect Scheich's true intentions because he presented himself as one of their peers. His actions caused the school district significant expenses as well.

Co-Conspirator Arrested

A 23-year-old woman named Angela Navarro was also arrested for posing as "Danielle Hess," the mother of Zak, to assist Scheich in enrolling in Lincoln Public Schools. She has pleaded not guilty to a criminal impersonation charge.