CANYON COUNTY, Idaho — A former Nampa pastor, Matthew Masiewicz, has been sentenced to up to 17 years in prison after pleading guilty to multiple child exploitation charges, with a judge emphasizing the severity of the crimes and the harm caused to victims.
The defendant pleaded guilty to four felony counts, including three counts of sexual exploitation of a child and one count of possession of sexually exploitative material back in February.
On Thursday morning, prosecutors argued for a lengthy prison sentence, saying the case involved disturbing material and a lack of accountability.
According to the state, law enforcement found multiple images of child sexual abuse on a laptop at the church where the defendant worked. Investigators said the material included images of children as young as 5 years old. Prosecutors also said the defendant shared images with others, contributing to the circulation of the material.
“The defendant does not acknowledge the severity of his crimes,” prosecutors said in court, adding that the distribution of such material fuels ongoing abuse.
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They also pushed back on claims made by the defendant that he had not downloaded illegal content and suggested some images were generated using artificial intelligence, calling those statements inconsistent with the evidence.
The state recommended a prison sentence through the Idaho Department of Corrections, arguing it would protect the community and send a message about the seriousness of the offense.
Defense attorneys disagreed, asking the court for a reduced sentence. They argued the defendant accepted responsibility, had shown remorse, and had taken steps to address his behavior.
“He immediately admitted to everything and tried to stop,” his attorney said, adding that the defendant had deleted apps and material prior to the investigation.
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The defense also pointed to the emotional toll the case has taken, saying the former pastor has lost his family, church, and reputation.
In a statement to the court, the defendant expressed remorse and acknowledged his actions.
“I sinned against my family and against those girls,” he said. “This sin has ruined my life.”
He described months of reflection, prayer, and participation in Bible study while in custody, and asked the court for “grace and mercy.”
The judge, however, focused on the seriousness of the crimes and the breach of trust.
“The photographs and videos depict not just teenagers, but children as young as 5 years old,” the judge said. “These actions caused immense harm, especially to the victims.”
The judge also noted concerns about the defendant’s earlier statements minimizing his conduct, but acknowledged that he appeared to take more responsibility during sentencing.
Ultimately, the court sentenced the defendant to a unified 17-year prison sentence, with five years fixed and 12 years indeterminate. He will serve the sentence in the custody of the Idaho Department of Corrections.
The judge said the sentence reflects the need for accountability, rehabilitation, and protection of the community.
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