The case of William and Zachary Zulock is a harrowing example of a deeply disturbing crime hidden behind a carefully crafted public image, and the final legal chapter closed recently with a severe sentence. This article, updated as of December 13, 2025, provides a comprehensive look at the facts of the case, the couple's background, the shocking details of their crimes against their adopted sons, and the 100-year sentence that has put them behind bars for life. The story, which garnered national attention, highlights critical issues in adoption screening, the dangers of online anonymity, and the devastating consequences when trust is betrayed by those who should protect the most vulnerable.
The couple, who once presented a seemingly idyllic life on social media, pleaded guilty to multiple felony charges in a Georgia courtroom, bringing an end to a case that shocked the community of Walton County and sparked a national conversation about online safety and the protection of children. The details of the charges, which included the use of platforms like OnlyFans and Telegram, reveal a sinister reality far removed from their public façade.
The Zulock Case: Complete Biography, Timeline, and Profile
The Zulock case revolves around two men from Oxford, Georgia, who were convicted of horrific crimes against their two adopted sons. Their profile was initially that of a loving, successful gay couple, which made the eventual revelations all the more shocking.
- Names: William Dale Zulock and Zachary Jacoby Zulock.
- Ages: William Zulock was 34-35 years old at the time of the sentence; Zachary Zulock was 35-36 years old.
- Location: Oxford, Walton County, Georgia (approximately 30 miles east of Atlanta).
- Marital Status: Married couple.
- Victims: Two young adopted sons, who were reportedly as young as three and five years old when the abuse began.
- Arrest Date: The couple was arrested in 2022 after the Walton County Sheriff's Office received a tip.
- Guilty Plea: Both men pleaded guilty to multiple felony charges in August 2024.
- Sentencing Date: December 19, 2024.
- Sentence: 100 years in prison without the possibility of parole.
The timeline of their crimes spanned several years, with the abuse occurring within their home, which authorities later described as a "house of horrors." The initial tip that led to their arrest came from an outside source, highlighting the crucial role of community vigilance in reporting suspected abuse.
The Shocking Charges and The OnlyFans/Telegram Connection
The severity of the Zulock case lies not only in the betrayal of trust but also in the extensive nature of the criminal enterprise. William and Zachary Zulock faced a litany of charges that painted a picture of calculated, long-term abuse.
A Web of Heinous Crimes
Following their arrest, the Walton County Grand Jury indicted the couple on over a dozen felony counts. The charges included:
- Incest: A charge reflecting the deepest betrayal of familial trust.
- Child Molestation (Multiple Counts): The core charges related to the sexual abuse of their adopted children.
- Sexual Exploitation of Children: This charge addressed the production and distribution of illegal content.
The victims, who were minors and under the protection of their adoptive parents, endured systematic abuse. The plea of guilty in August 2024 was a crucial step that spared the young victims from having to testify in a full trial, though the details revealed during the investigation were deeply disturbing.
The Role of Online Platforms
A particularly shocking element of the case was the alleged use of online platforms to facilitate and document their crimes. Reports indicated that the couple utilized their social media presence, which included accounts on platforms like OnlyFans and Telegram, to distribute content related to the abuse.
This aspect of the case brought the issue of online content moderation and the dark corners of the internet to the forefront. The couple’s ability to maintain a public profile of a happy, well-adjusted family while allegedly engaging in such crimes underscores the deceptive nature of social media façades.
The Legal Aftermath: Guilty Plea and 100-Year Sentence
The conclusion of the Zulock case saw a rare and definitive sentence that ensured the couple would never be free again. The legal process moved swiftly following the initial arrest and investigation by the Walton County Sheriff's Office.
Pleading Guilty to Avoid Trial
In a significant legal development, both William and Zachary Zulock chose to plead guilty to the multiple felony counts. This plea agreement, entered in August 2024, resulted in the immediate forfeiture of their right to a trial and guaranteed a harsh sentence. Legal experts noted that the decision to plead guilty was likely influenced by the overwhelming evidence collected by law enforcement.
The Century-Long Sentence
On December 19, 2024, the couple stood before a Georgia judge and were formally sentenced. The judge imposed a sentence of 100 years in state prison for each man, to be served without the possibility of parole.
This sentence is functionally a life sentence, ensuring that the perpetrators will remain incarcerated for the remainder of their natural lives. The severity of the punishment reflects the gravity of the charges and the vulnerability of the victims. The court’s decision was intended to deliver justice for the two young boys and send a clear message about the zero-tolerance policy for such crimes.
Broader Implications: Social Trust, Adoption, and Online Safety
The Zulock case extends beyond the confines of a single criminal proceeding; it raises serious questions about the systems designed to protect children and the role of digital platforms. The case has become a focal point for discussions on several key topical authority issues:
The Failure of the System and Adoption Screening
One of the most immediate concerns raised by the case is how two individuals capable of such crimes were approved to adopt two young boys. The Zulocks were able to project a stable, loving image, highlighting potential gaps in the rigorous screening processes for adoptive parents. The case has prompted calls for a review and strengthening of background checks and ongoing monitoring in adoption and foster care systems to prevent similar tragedies.
Social Media and the Deceptive Façade
The couple's use of social media to cultivate a "perfect life" image, while allegedly operating a criminal enterprise on platforms like OnlyFans and Telegram, underscores the danger of trusting online appearances. This phenomenon, often referred to as a "predator in plain sight," serves as a stark warning to parents and guardians about the need for digital literacy and vigilance regarding online interactions and content consumption.
The Importance of Reporting and Community Action
Ultimately, the arrest of William and Zachary Zulock came from a tip received by the Walton County Sheriff's Office. This crucial detail emphasizes the vital importance of community members and concerned individuals stepping forward to report suspicious activity. The courage of the person who reported the initial tip was instrumental in stopping the abuse and securing justice for the victims.
The 100-year sentence handed down to William and Zachary Zulock marks the definitive end of a dark chapter. While the legal resolution is final, the case continues to serve as a powerful, tragic reminder of the need for constant vigilance in protecting children, both in the physical world and across digital spaces.
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