Ojai pastor David Johnson charged with felony child sex abuse

David Johnson, 58, of Ojai, California, has pleaded not guilty to six felony counts of child sex abuse following his arraignment in Ventura County Superior Court. The charges include four counts of lewd acts upon a child and two counts of continuous sexual abuse.

Prosecutors allege that the abuse involved two victims under the age of 14 and occurred over several years at locations in Ojai and Oxnard. Investigators stated that Johnson utilized his positions as both a pastor and a licensed massage therapist to gain community trust and access to the children through familial relationships.

Special allegations have been filed regarding the substantial nature of the sexual abuse and the age of the victims. Johnson remains in custody without bail, with a bail review hearing scheduled for August 28. The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office is actively seeking information regarding any other potential unreported victims.