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Crime & Justice

Ojai pastor and massage therapist charged with child molestation, investigators warn of more victims

David Johnson, a pastor who also provided massage therapy in Ojai, has been charged with two counts of child molestation and remains jailed without bail as authorities suspect additional victims.

David Johnson, a pastor in Ojai who also worked as a massage therapist, was arraigned on six felony child-molestation counts in Ventura County Superior Court and pleaded not guilty. The charges involve alleged abuse of two children younger than 14, victims who reportedly knew him through family ties that granted him access. Prosecutors believe the misconduct occurred over a multi-year span and fear other victims may exist.

Johnson remains detained without bail, with a bail-review hearing scheduled for Aug. 28. Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko and Sheriff’s Office Detective Michael Loth are seeking tips from the public, offering a phone line for leads.

Why it matters

The case highlights potential abuse by trusted community figures and prompts a public safety warning in the area.

In this story

child molestationpastormassage therapistVentura Countylaw enforcementpublic safetybail hearing
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