Charlotte, NC, August 22, 2025
News Summary
Kent Matzinger, a former youth volleyball coach in Charlotte, has been charged with second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor after allegedly receiving explicit materials from a minor via social media. The investigation started following the arrest of an individual in Texas for soliciting explicit content from underage girls, which led authorities to Matzinger. Although he claimed he believed he was a victim of catfishing, serious allegations were made about his conduct. He has been released on a $50,000 bond, with ongoing investigations into his actions continuing.
Charlotte, NC – Kent Matzinger, a 41-year-old former part-time youth volleyball coach for Carolina Juniors Volleyball Club and deputy clerk with Mecklenburg County, has been charged with second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor. The charges stem from allegations that he received sexually explicit material from a minor through social media.
Law enforcement’s investigation into Matzinger was initiated after the arrest of Jacob Day in Texas, who reportedly created fake social media accounts to solicit explicit content from underage girls. Day allegedly posed as a young female to procure explicit photos and videos from victims, collecting money in exchange for that content.
During the investigation, authorities discovered that Day had mentioned a person identified as “Kent,” which was later revealed to be Matzinger. It is claimed that Matzinger sent substantial funds to Day’s account. Matzinger had been communicating with a fake account operated by Day, which pretended to represent a teenage girl named “Zianna” under the Instagram handle “kentpoolcollects.”
Messages exchanged between Matzinger and the account allegedly included discussions regarding explicit images of minors aged 14 to 16. Matzinger is accused of having paid for these images and videos, raising serious concerns about his conduct.
On January 16, 2025, a federal search warrant was executed at Matzinger’s residence by the FBI and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department. Authorities conducted an interview with Matzinger, during which he admitted to communicating with the “Zianna” account but asserted that he believed he was in a catfishing situation. He denied knowingly engaging in sexual conversations with anyone under 18, claiming the interaction ceased in February 2025.
Subsequently, a review of Matzinger’s electronic devices indicated no recovery of child sexual abuse material at that time. However, investigations remain ongoing as law enforcement continues to examine the case further.
Matzinger has since been released on a $50,000 bond and has been ordered not to contact the alleged victim. His next court appearance is scheduled for September 4, 2025.
The Carolina Juniors Volleyball Club expressed its shock regarding the news, stating that no complaints had ever been lodged against Matzinger throughout his 16 years with the organization. Notably, Matzinger resigned abruptly without providing any explanation in an email just before the allegations surfaced.
This case is under ongoing investigation by multiple agencies, including the State Bureau of Investigation and the FBI. As the legal proceedings continue, more information is likely to emerge regarding Matzinger’s actions and affiliations.
Background Information
Kent Matzinger’s involvement with youth volleyball coaching spanned 16 years, during which he was part of a well-respected organization. His recent termination from the Mecklenburg County Clerk’s office, effective until August 2025, raises further questions about the nature of his dual roles and the responsibilities held within both capacities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the charges against Kent Matzinger?
Kent Matzinger has been charged with second-degree sexual exploitation of a minor for allegedly receiving sexually explicit material from a minor through social media.
How did the investigation into Matzinger start?
The investigation began in Texas following the arrest of Jacob Day, who created fake social media accounts to solicit explicit content from underage girls.
What role did Jacob Day play in Matzinger’s case?
Jacob Day allegedly posed as a young female and collected money from individuals, including Matzinger, in exchange for explicit content involving minors.
What is the status of the case against Matzinger?
Matzinger has been released on a $50,000 bond, with orders not to contact the victim. Ongoing investigations are being conducted, and his next court appearance is set for September 4, 2025.
What has Carolina Juniors Volleyball Club said regarding Matzinger?
The Carolina Juniors Volleyball Club expressed shock at the news and stated they had never received complaints against Matzinger during his time with the organization.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Principal Arrested on Child Sex Crime Charges
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Charlotte Man Faces Charges for Child Abuse Materials
Flight Attendant Pleads Guilty in Lynchburg Incident
Teachers Arrested in Concord Amid Disturbing Allegations
Additional Resources
- QC News
- Charlotte 49ers: Bastien Huon
- WSOC TV
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Child Exploitation
- Spectrum Local News
Author: HERE Charlotte
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