Ojai Man Arrested for Attacks on Teens and Vandalism

Ventura County deputies have arrested 23-year-old Isaiah Avalos, a homeless man, following a series of alleged attacks on teenagers in Ojai. The Ventura County Sheriff's Office charged Avalos with multiple offenses, including willful cruelty to a child, illegal use of pepper spray, vandalism, and battery. He is currently being held on a $50,000 bail. The incidents began on August 4, when Avalos reportedly pepper-sprayed two teenage girls while they were riding electric bikes on a path near South Blanche Street. The girls described the attack as unprovoked, stating that Avalos stood in their way and sprayed them as they passed, causing irritation to their arms. The following day, Avalos allegedly pushed a boy and a girl off their bicycle on Maricopa Highway near Nordhoff High School, resulting in minor injuries. The boy recognized Avalos as a local homeless individual, which helped deputies identify and locate him for arrest a few days later. Investigators have also linked Avalos to a previous incident on July 28, where a 39-year-old man was pepper-sprayed in the 300 block of El Roblar Avenue. The Ventura County Sheriff's Office is seeking additional information regarding these incidents and is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for tips, with anonymity assured for those who contact Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477.