Former Ventura County School Counselor to Face Trial Over 33 Felony Counts

A former elementary school counselor in Ventura County is officially heading to trial following a series of grave criminal allegations. David Lane Braff Jr. faces 33 felony counts of lewd acts upon a child, a development that has deeply unsettled the local community.

The legal proceedings follow an extensive investigation that expanded significantly since the initial arrest in November 2024. While authorities originally focused on six students, the scope of the case grew as additional victims came forward to report abuse.

Prosecutors have now identified 15 alleged victims linked to the defendant. These incidents reportedly occurred during his tenure at various educational institutions, including McKevett Elementary School in Santa Paula and Bright Star Schools in Los Angeles.

The Ventura County District Attorney’s Office confirmed that a second amended complaint was filed in October 2025 to reflect the total number of charges. Braff has entered a plea of not guilty to all 33 counts and remains in custody while awaiting further court proceedings.

The nature of these allegations has prompted a broader conversation regarding the safety of students in trusted positions. Parents and administrators are now grappling with the reality that a professional tasked with student welfare could be accused of such egregious conduct.

The victims involved were all minors at the time the alleged abuse took place. This case highlights the critical importance of rigorous oversight and background checks for individuals working in direct contact with young children.

As the legal process moves forward, the community continues to seek answers regarding how such a situation could persist undetected. The trial date for the case has not yet been publicly announced by the court.

Legal experts suggest that the trial will likely focus on the testimony of the 15 victims and the evidence gathered during the lengthy investigation. The outcome of this trial will be a significant moment for the families affected by these events.

For now, the focus remains on the judicial process and ensuring that the victims receive justice. The case serves as a somber reminder of the necessity for vigilance in all school environments.