Shocking Child Abuse Case: Former Ventura County Counselor Charged with Additional Crimes
In a distressing turn of events, David Lane Braff, Jr., a former school counselor in Ventura County, has been charged with additional crimes related to child molestation. Initially arrested on November 22, 2024, for allegedly molesting eight children at McKevett Elementary School in Santa Paula, the case has escalated dramatically, with new allegations surfacing against Braff. This report summarizes the developments and the broader implications surrounding this grave situation.
Arrest and Initial Charges
Braff, 42, from Thousand Oaks, previously faced accusations of molesting eight students between 2015 and 2019 while serving as a counselor at McKevett Elementary School. His arrest occurred while he held the dual position of assistant principal and school counselor at Ingenium Charter Middle School in Los Angeles. Following his arrest, Braff has remained in custody, with a bail set at an alarming $3 million. The allegations paint a disturbing picture of exploitation, highlighting Braff’s abuse of his position of trust concerning vulnerable children.
New Allegations and Criminal Counts
On April 29, the Ventura County District Attorney’s Office revealed an amended criminal complaint, adding 14 new felony counts of lewd acts upon a child under the age of 14. Four of the additional victims were students from McKevett Elementary, while the fifth was allegedly abused between 2004 and 2005 during Braff’s tenure with the Conejo Recreation and Park District. With these developments, Braff now faces a staggering total of 31 counts of child molestation, implicating both male and female victims.
The Scope of his Employment History
The gravity of the situation is further amplified by Braff’s extensive employment history in roles involving children. Over the past 25 years, he has held various positions, including part-time roles with the Conejo Recreation and Park District and coaching in the Conejo Valley Unified School District. His history includes serving as a behavioral therapist and working in multiple educational institutions, culminating in significant roles such as school counselor at multiple schools. This extensive exposure to vulnerable children raises serious questions about safety and oversight in organizations that employ individuals with such histories.
Investigative Commitment
Ventura County District Attorney Erik Nasarenko has emphasized the commitment of investigators and prosecutors to uncover the full extent of Braff’s alleged crimes. He stated, "The defendant is now accused of molesting even more young victims across multiple years and locations." This determination extends to urging anyone with pertinent information about Braff’s activities to come forward, indicating a community effort to seek justice for the victims.
Legal Proceedings and Community Response
An arraignment hearing has been scheduled for May 21 at the Ventura County Superior Court, where the legal proceedings will begin to unfold. The severity of the allegations has sparked outrage within the community, calling for increased vigilance and accountability in child-focused organizations. There is an urgent need for parents and caregivers to be aware of potential dangers and to ensure that children’s spaces are free from individuals with troubling histories.
Call for Victims to Step Forward
In light of the escalating allegations, authorities are encouraging other potential victims of Braff or anyone with additional information related to the case to reach out to Ventura County District Attorney Investigator Greg Webb at 805-477-1627. The legal system aims to ensure justice for those affected while addressing any systemic failures that allowed such exploitation to occur.
This case serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of safeguarding our children and holding accountable those who misuse their positions of trust. As the situation unfolds, the community remains vigilant in seeking justice for victims and striving to create a safer environment for all children.
