Story perspectives

Pastor David Johnson Charged with Six Felony Child-Molestation Counts

8/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Pastor David Johnson faces six felony child-molestation charges in Ventura County.
Prosecutors allege he molested two children under 14 at locations in Ojai and Oxnard between 2013 and 2015.
Johnson pleaded not guilty, remains held without bail, and faces a bail-review hearing on Aug. 28.
Detective Michael Loth asks anyone with information to call (805) 384-4745.

History

Historical Context

In 2002 the Boston Globe’s Spotlight series exposed abuse by five Catholic priests, prompting Cardinal Bernard Law’s resignation and the US Conference of Catholic Bishops to adopt a zero-tolerance charter. The scandal spurred nationwide reforms in reporting and safeguarding. Decades later, Ventura County prosecutors have charged evangelical Pastor David Johnson with six felony child-molestation counts from 2013-2015, echoing the same pressure for stricter protocols.

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Story summary

Pastor David Johnson faces six felony child-molestation charges in Ventura County.
Prosecutors allege he molested two children under 14 at locations in Ojai and Oxnard between 2013 and 2015.
Johnson pleaded not guilty, remains held without bail, and faces a bail-review hearing on Aug. 28.
Detective Michael Loth asks anyone with information to call (805) 384-4745.

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