Is it true Santa Barbara is soft on prosecuting child molesters? Who is Jeffrey Quenton Johnson? One would never know based on what is available from the California Department of Justice. Jeffrey Q. Johnson was arrested for molesting two female children under the age of 10 back in December of 09. An within 4 months (are you kidding me) was able to reach a plea bargain agreement with the Santa Barbara District Attorney office. That plea deal will have Jeffrey Johnson out of prison in under 3 years for all of his crimes. I came across this atrocity while reviewing the preferential treatment that Mr. Jeschke also received from this county for his sex offenses. I was not able to find much in the way of media coverage on the internet for this posting. I did find 3 story’s that appeared in the Santa Barbara Independent that followed Mr. Johnson from arrest to conviction. The first story had a total of 6 lines, the second 22 lines and the final story had 5 lines. Talk about how our media is bought and sold but there is something that does stick out to me. The amount of public comments that followed each print story clearly shows our community was not OK with how this case was handled. On the program I am using to write this posting I see it is almost 29 pages long and I do apologized for the length of my work here today. My thoughts and copies of the original media story’s took only 3 pages. 26 pages are the comments of concerned citizens like you and me. Hiding or making it easy for Major drug dealers and child molesters to get through our legal system is not OK with me or anyone I know. Lets make sure we get that message out. Using the R.I.C.O. Was OK with kids and done for nothing more than making headlines. What a waste of time and effort. When it comes to Major Drug dealers like Bjorklund, an O'Reilly for pot. Or Paxson for methamphetamine’s why is the R.I.C.O. Tag left off them and there criminal cases? This might be a stretch but maybe someone in local law enforcement cane forward his mug shot to Megan's Law web page?
http://www.meganslaw.ca.gov/cgi/
Office of Attorney General - Megan’s Law
State of California Department of Justice
Jeffrey Quenton Johnson INCARCERATED
Please go to the link below to see what is available on Mr. Johnson
http://www.meganslaw.ca.gov/cgi/prosoma.dll?searchby=offender&id=18610174N7348
BEGINING OF MEDIA COVERAGE
http://www.independent.com/news/2009/dec/03/montecito-man-arrested-child-molestation/
Montecito Man Arrested for Child Molestation
Relative Tips Sheriff to Suspected Abuse
Thursday, December 3, 2009
From Sheriff’s Department press report]: On Monday, November 30, 2009, a relative of the victims contacted the Sheriff’s Department to report the suspected abuse of two pre-teen sisters.
@http://www.independent.com/news/2010/mar/12/johnson-pleads-no-contest/
Pleads No Contest to Sex Abuse Charges
Will Receive Three-Year Prison Sentence; Must Register as Sex Offender
Friday, March 12, 2010
By Chris Meagher (Contact)
A Mountain Drive man pleaded no contest to crimes Friday morning that will put him in state prison for over two-and-a-half years and require him to register as a sex offender for the remainder of his life.
Instead of going through a preliminary hearing on Wednesday — where details of the allegations Jeffrey Johnson faced would begin to emerge — Johnson pleaded no contest on Friday to two counts of unlawful genital penetration with a foreign object of a child under the age of 14.
He received three years in state prison for each count, to be served concurrently, and has to register as a sex offender. “His life is going to change dramatically,” prosecutor Ron Zonen said after Friday’s hearing. Zonen said he was content with the outcome and pleased the two young victims didn’t have to be in court for a trial or preliminary hearing.
The counts, which both are strikes under California’s three strikes law, relate to acts committed against two sisters — both between the ages of seven and 10 — in November 2009. Authorities suspected the sexual abuse had been ongoing for three years.
If Johnson, 58 years old at the time of his arrest, had gone to trial and been convicted on the charges he was facing — two counts of continued abuse of a child — he could’ve received 10 years in prison. “He did the stand-up thing and acknowledged what he did,” Zonen said, noting that a lot of his neighbors, for a period of time, didn’t believe the two victims were telling the truth.
Indeed, the courtroom was fairly full with a group supporting Johnson. In the weeks following his arrest, many came to his support, saying they had known him for many years to be a respected man who they trusted with children.
Johnson left the courthouse out a back door, and his attorney Sam Eaton was not immediately available for comment. Johnson will be back in court June 2, when he will receive his sentence and be remanded into custody.
He received three years in state prison for each count, to be served concurrently, and has to register as a sex offender. “His life is going to change dramatically,” prosecutor Ron Zonen said after Friday’s hearing. Zonen said he was content with the outcome and pleased the two young victims didn’t have to be in court for a trial or preliminary hearing.
If Johnson, 58 years old at the time of his arrest, had gone to trial and been convicted on the charges he was facing — two counts of continued abuse of a child — he could’ve received 10 years in prison. “He did the stand-up thing and acknowledged what he did,” Zonen said, noting that a lot of his neighbors, for a period of time, didn’t believe the two victims were telling the truth.
Indeed, the courtroom was fairly full with a group supporting Johnson. In the weeks following his arrest, many came to his support, saying they had known him for many years to be a respected man who they trusted with children.
Johnson left the courthouse out a back door, and his attorney Sam Eaton was not immediately available for comment. Johnson will be back in court June 2, when he will receive his sentence and be remanded into custody.
http://www.independent.com/news/2010/jun/09/child-molester-gets-three-years/
Child Molester Gets Three Years
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
By Chris Meagher (Contact)
Jeffrey Johnson was sentenced to three years in state prison—an agreed-upon plea—on 6/3 for two felony counts of sexual assault against two girls between the ages of seven and 10. As part of the plea, Johnson admitted he was guilty and will have to register as a sex offender for life. Johnson apologized publicly in court for his actions, and the mother of the two victims read a statement displaying the impact of his offenses on their family. END OF MEDIA COVERAGE
The comments below were generated from the story originally printed 12/03/09 @http://www.independent.com/news/2009/dec/03/montecito-man-arrested-child-molestation/
Comments
Independent Discussion Guidelines What? Only %$500,000 for someone who lives on West Mountain Drive - and has possibly been victimizing two young girls for years? Where is propriety in this case?
gilrundlet (anonymous profile)December 4, 2009 at 8:36 a.m. (Suggest removal)
What does it have to do with where someone lives...?
CommonSense (anonymous profile)December 4, 2009 at 9:01 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Well if he lived on Montecito St. chances are he doesn't have $500,000; but Montecito different story. Look at his picture, he looks like Chester the Molester.
http://www.sbsheriff.org/pr/12030901....
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)http://www.sbsheriff.org/pr/12030901....
December 4, 2009 at 9:51 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Whatever happened to innocent until proven guilty?
I know Jeff Johnson, have worked with him and had him in my home. I have only ever seen an honest, gentle person of great integrity. It seems incomprehensible that he would ever harm a child. I am all for protecting innocent children, but lets wait for evidence before making assumptions of guilt.
LWH16 (anonymous profile)I know Jeff Johnson, have worked with him and had him in my home. I have only ever seen an honest, gentle person of great integrity. It seems incomprehensible that he would ever harm a child. I am all for protecting innocent children, but lets wait for evidence before making assumptions of guilt.
December 4, 2009 at 11:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)
John Wayne Gacy and Ted Bundy also put up a very convincing front. Do you expect a child molester to tell you what he really is?
9 more pages of comments followDecember 4, 2009 at 12:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Calm down peeps. Just because someone lives in Montecito doesn't mean squat either way! It cracks me up when people say that. The homes here haven't always been a million plus. If the police are stating that there may be 3 cases, they aren't just saying that off a hunch. It's disgusting and horrid if it's true, but if it's not ... I imagine the poor man's life is ruined and he may have to move to Montecito Street or even down to Oxnard if he's got the money for a bus ticket. Either way... He's screwed.
MuddyPuppet (anonymous profile)December 4, 2009 at 3:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I've known Jeffrey for years. He's an honorable man and these charges boggle the mind and I do not believe them. Yes, the DA's office must have moved cautiously before filing, but it will not have been the first time that someone has been wrongly accused. And ruined 'though subsequently found innocent.
As for the amount of bail, he is a long-time local, a working man with deep roots in the community; he worked hard to help his neighbors on Mountain Drive during the recent fires. The bail amount is excessive.
Indeed, innocent until proven guilty
citti (anonymous profile)As for the amount of bail, he is a long-time local, a working man with deep roots in the community; he worked hard to help his neighbors on Mountain Drive during the recent fires. The bail amount is excessive.
Indeed, innocent until proven guilty
December 4, 2009 at 3:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Often it is the people we least expect capable of doing harm to others. People need to realize that while this man is certainly innocent until proven guilty by a fair trial, that child molesters, rapists and even murderers come in all packages, many times seeming to be ideal citizens until found out.
I'm not saying this is the case with this man, but just as he's not guilty yet, his deep roots in the community don't really mean anything, I'm afraid.
We need to all realize that anyone can be capable of these types of crimes. There's no "Chester the Molester" look or personality type. That's the scary truth.
Native1 (anonymous profile)I'm not saying this is the case with this man, but just as he's not guilty yet, his deep roots in the community don't really mean anything, I'm afraid.
We need to all realize that anyone can be capable of these types of crimes. There's no "Chester the Molester" look or personality type. That's the scary truth.
December 4, 2009 at 5:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I have known Jeff Johnson for nearly 30 years...socially, musically, and professionally...and have always valued our friendship. He is well-known in this town and well-liked. I'm sure that everyone who counts JJ as a friend hopes and prays that the charges against him are not true...and that somehow he will overcome this nightmare. The idea that the first thread to appear herein has to do with the amount of bail and Jeff's address is upsetting. One thing for sure...anyone who has been to Jeff Johnson's house knows that it's a far cry from a "Montecito mansion" and consigning him to a higher bail just because his house happens to be in 93108 is ridiculous. I think folks should be more concerned with the real people involved and all the terrible anguish they are going through...the victims, their families...as well as Jeff and his family. Let the legal system do its job before you cast your stones.
jeffchemnick (anonymous profile)December 4, 2009 at 5:10 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Jeff is a very nice person as far as I know. I know molesters come in all kinds of packages, but no one that I know of that knows him had any ounce or inkling or shred of evidence that he would commit molestation. It seems very hard to believe and I hope that we give him as fair of a chance as possible and remember that people do get falsely accused of these crimes.
fraugefahr (anonymous profile)December 4, 2009 at 6:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Native1,
I mentioned deep roots in the community only in the context of bail which is supposed to be set in consideration of flight risk. It's not supposed to be punitive, but to guarantee appearance at trial.
Indeed, I know that one never knows another and what another can do, but false accusations are certainly true.
citti (anonymous profile)I mentioned deep roots in the community only in the context of bail which is supposed to be set in consideration of flight risk. It's not supposed to be punitive, but to guarantee appearance at trial.
Indeed, I know that one never knows another and what another can do, but false accusations are certainly true.
December 4, 2009 at 7:29 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I wonder if all you people who are defending this man did the same for Michael Jackson, after all he was also found innocent.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)December 4, 2009 at 7:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This man may very well be innocent! Do not forget this! This would not be the first time accusations have been hot air. All fair citizens should let the legal system use "due process" to determine the guilt or innocents of the accused, before they judge. This also applies to the white collar thieves & drug dealers of Monti. This is not a village of complete innocence. Why wasn't a photo published of Jeff in a suit and tie as the "other criminals of Montecito are portrayed"?
I know Jeff to be an honest hard working man. He just happens to reside on Mountain Dr., one of the most coveted rural addresses in Santa Barbara, were neighbors know their neighbors, and assist one other in good and bad times, in short, a tight community. These people actually know one another.
I am appalled reading of the jealousness due to the address. This is not a good reason to raise bail.
ESS01 (anonymous profile)I know Jeff to be an honest hard working man. He just happens to reside on Mountain Dr., one of the most coveted rural addresses in Santa Barbara, were neighbors know their neighbors, and assist one other in good and bad times, in short, a tight community. These people actually know one another.
I am appalled reading of the jealousness due to the address. This is not a good reason to raise bail.
December 4, 2009 at 9:07 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Jeff Johnson is a prince among men. I have known him for at least half a century. Exemplary of gentleness and kindness, good manners, intelligence, and respect for others, Jeff is also a contributing working person in our world. Jeff Johnson is a good man. Period. I urge all of you who are interested in real justice to join me in raising his $500,000 bail money. I have already personally pledged all I can. Let's get our friend out on $500,000 cash bail just as quickly as we can. The money should be refunded after the bail hearing scheduled on Friday when Jeff should be released on his own recognizance. Whoever ordered that bail did not know Jeff. Our posting the money is not buying a bail bond but is fully refundable bail money. We are just showing support for Jeff by a short term investment on his behalf. Lets join together and form the Friends of Jeff Johnson, showing our support for our friend Jeff. If fifty friends lend an average of $10,000 apiece for a week or so, he's released. If 500 join with $1,000 he's released. If anyone has $500,000, come be a great friend. In any event. together we can show our support and have him free of this "punishment before trial". The entire matter may be the result of misunderstanding. Please call if you would like to help post the refundable $500,000 for a week or so, Santa Barbara 805-898-0502.
--Bill Hackett
William Bostock Hackett III
wbhackett (anonymous profile)--Bill Hackett
William Bostock Hackett III
December 4, 2009 at 9:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This situation brings to mind " The Children's Hour". ( Google it). A chilling story of vivid imagination,mendacity,deceit and mass hysteria set in a girl's boarding school. Too often we are tempted to fear the worst without stopping to think there may be an alternative. The police are expected to take seriously and follow through all complaints. However,it does not mean the accused is guilty. Life is often not what it appears to be. Those biased words regarding this man's postal address are based on ignorance. One who really knows Montecito would be aware of the diverse residential areas. Not everyone,alas, lives in a mansion behind iron gates guarded by stone lions! Take a breath and give this man some space.
samuel (anonymous profile)December 5, 2009 at 4:46 a.m. (Suggest removal)
About the Michael Jackson comment: MJ was not a friend of mine and his alleged behavior was certainly no shock given his behavior and life style. Furthermore, the circus that was his trial and the amounts of money spent to achieve his means will bear little resemblance to this situation. Of course no one really knows what goes on behind closed doors and of course people have been falsely accused. We don't have the facts before us other than the charges vs. the man many of us have known for a long time. He may be guilty or not...but at the moment, he's not. We will have to see how this plays out. All I'm saying is that it's ludicrous to confer guilt based on an unflattering police photo or base bail on a man's zip code. If Jeff is found to be guilty the pain will be shared not only by the victims and their family but the many friends and family of the accused that can't reconcile the person they have known for so long with the crimes he's accused of committing.
jeffchemnick (anonymous profile)December 5, 2009 at 6:39 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I have known Jeffrey and the entire Johnson family for over 40 years. I have seen Jeff throughout these years in many situations and observed his interactions with his sisters, nieces and nephews, and friends and strangers, alike. At no time has there ever been the slightest hint of impropriety. In fact, quite the opposite. Jeff is a devoted father, loving uncle to his many nieces and nephews, close brother to his sisters and brothers, and loving and caring son to his father (deceased) and mother, Anne.
I understand the seriousness of these allegations. And I also understand that some of the people that have posted to this discussion do not know Jeff and, therefore, could not possibly comment on the character of this man. For those persons, I can only ask them to let the process work and the truth will be revealed.
syvalleydd (anonymous profile)I understand the seriousness of these allegations. And I also understand that some of the people that have posted to this discussion do not know Jeff and, therefore, could not possibly comment on the character of this man. For those persons, I can only ask them to let the process work and the truth will be revealed.
December 5, 2009 at 8:17 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I am another friend of Jeffery who has known him for 40 years. My experience of Jeffery is that he is a truly good man. I can not imagine that this is true, even though I know that these things do happen, and in fact happened to me as a child. It is unwise, to say the very least, to convict anyone in the press, with crazy assumptions about Mountain Drive being representative of a Monticeto elite (which is really laughable to those of us who have lived here long enough to know the truth about Mountain Drive!). Let us wait and see what the truth is, and support all who need us. Reacting with assumptions based on an unflattering picture, and a brief report does no one good.
rookiebear (anonymous profile)December 5, 2009 at 9:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm sure the BTK serial killer's family and friends said all the same things you guys are saying about this guy. Hey, maybe it is B.S. but then where does that put these pre-teen girls? Are they just trying to set this man up? And for what reason?
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)December 5, 2009 at 10:19 a.m. (Suggest removal)
AX2SB -- wait for the facts is all I am saying. The truth will emerge via the process, and the chips will fall as they may.
syvalleydd (anonymous profile)December 5, 2009 at 10:47 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Remember, Jeff has lived in the SB community for nearly 60 years, and much of that time in a small, intimate, and very cohesive neighborhood.
As a plumber, he's had free access to many of our homes-- and has always been trusted around our kids. I can't be the only person who left him tinkering in my kitchen while my kids watched TV in the next room and I took a quick trip down to Vons! Anyone who knows Jeff would not hesitate to do this.
Despite all this trust and access, in nearly six decades, never has there been even a hint of an impropriety or misdeed before. To the contrary, he has earned the highest level of trust from all who know him.
What's wrong with this picture? Either a whole neighborhood has been completely snowed for half a century, or these allegations are false.
LWH16 (anonymous profile)As a plumber, he's had free access to many of our homes-- and has always been trusted around our kids. I can't be the only person who left him tinkering in my kitchen while my kids watched TV in the next room and I took a quick trip down to Vons! Anyone who knows Jeff would not hesitate to do this.
Despite all this trust and access, in nearly six decades, never has there been even a hint of an impropriety or misdeed before. To the contrary, he has earned the highest level of trust from all who know him.
What's wrong with this picture? Either a whole neighborhood has been completely snowed for half a century, or these allegations are false.
December 5, 2009 at 1:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Like everyone who has written a comment and who also knows Jeff Johnson, I find it difficult to reconcile the man I've come to know over a period of 25 years with the man portrayed in the Sheriff's press release. Not once in all my dealings with him did he ever send the slightest vibration of having the capability of doing something wrong, let alone something as evil as what he is accused of doing. His many friends will stand by him as he goes through this ordeal, to judge by what has been said, since we all have had the same shared positive experience with Jeff.
zauche (anonymous profile)December 5, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I, like many of the previous posts, love, admire, respect and trust Jeffrey Johnson. He has been, in my almost five years of knowing him well, one of the most admirable men. Although their names have not been released, and I will not give any of their information, I know the alleged victims also and know them to be two of the brightest, most amazing girls I've ever known. Either way, this case breaks my heart and turns my stomach. Either my dear friend is severely sick and confused or they have been severely misinformed and confused. Please hold your judgements and join me in hoping and praying for peace for all involved.
onamichin (anonymous profile)December 5, 2009 at 3:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It is amazing how otherwise intelligent people become hysterically defensive when they learn of alleged criminal behavior (especially child molestation) on the part of someone they "know" could not commit the act. Tragic to think they are willing to throw the victims under the bus in their blind defense of a man whose alleged acts obviously would have occurred outside of their view. Let's hope the victims aren't reading these comments which essentially negate their own, eyewitness experience
sbsleuth99 (anonymous profile)December 5, 2009 at 4:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
sbsleuth,
Is it your position that ALL allegations of sexual abuse are true?
What if someone accused YOU of sexual abuse? Would you want your long-time friends to shrug and assume you'd done it, or would you want them to defend your character and trust years of firsthand experience?
If EVIDENCE is produced that proves these allegations, then I'll believe them. If not, they are just allegations.
Either way, the kids are victims here-- nobody is throwing them under the bus.
LWH16 (anonymous profile)Is it your position that ALL allegations of sexual abuse are true?
What if someone accused YOU of sexual abuse? Would you want your long-time friends to shrug and assume you'd done it, or would you want them to defend your character and trust years of firsthand experience?
If EVIDENCE is produced that proves these allegations, then I'll believe them. If not, they are just allegations.
Either way, the kids are victims here-- nobody is throwing them under the bus.
December 5, 2009 at 5:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
sbsleuth,
One would wish for loyal friends if one should have the misfortune to face an insurmountable problem; such as this unfortunate man is doing at this moment. I doubt there is anyone here intending to negate the accusers, one only wishes to point out that certain remarks and comments have been at times tasteless,hasty, and leaning towards the opinion of guilt without evidence. In other words, one should not jump to conclusions and make assumptions.
samuel (anonymous profile)One would wish for loyal friends if one should have the misfortune to face an insurmountable problem; such as this unfortunate man is doing at this moment. I doubt there is anyone here intending to negate the accusers, one only wishes to point out that certain remarks and comments have been at times tasteless,hasty, and leaning towards the opinion of guilt without evidence. In other words, one should not jump to conclusions and make assumptions.
December 5, 2009 at 6:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I find it ridiculous that these people who have come out defending this alleged abuser and molester vilify those who are presupposing his guilt in committing these heinous acts as they presuppose his innocence.
It is a very telling human reaction for someone to jump into the deep end of denial as they attempt to justify and sanitize their various associations with this guy.
For someone to be friends with an alleged criminal who has never exhibited any prior outward signs of his criminal behavior becomes simply too much for them as they cannot allow for their own potentially misguided judgment in character to somehow stain them by this association.
Hence, the frantic backpeddling.
Listen: I'm not certain what the exact percentage of all reported sexual abuse claims are proven to be false or erroneous, but any rational human being would assume it is in the decidedly smaller column by a ton.
Once prosecutors follow the smoke, the true nature of the cause will be revealed. Whatever it is, I hope that if there is proven criminal fire, all of you defending pre-apologists weigh in with the same fervor you are exhibiting here.
Ditto for the pre-convictors.
There is a high chance the truth will out in due course.
Let the scales of justice find their balance and if this guy did what he is alleged to do that he never again sees the free light of day.
Draxor (anonymous profile)It is a very telling human reaction for someone to jump into the deep end of denial as they attempt to justify and sanitize their various associations with this guy.
For someone to be friends with an alleged criminal who has never exhibited any prior outward signs of his criminal behavior becomes simply too much for them as they cannot allow for their own potentially misguided judgment in character to somehow stain them by this association.
Hence, the frantic backpeddling.
Listen: I'm not certain what the exact percentage of all reported sexual abuse claims are proven to be false or erroneous, but any rational human being would assume it is in the decidedly smaller column by a ton.
Once prosecutors follow the smoke, the true nature of the cause will be revealed. Whatever it is, I hope that if there is proven criminal fire, all of you defending pre-apologists weigh in with the same fervor you are exhibiting here.
Ditto for the pre-convictors.
There is a high chance the truth will out in due course.
Let the scales of justice find their balance and if this guy did what he is alleged to do that he never again sees the free light of day.
December 6, 2009 at 10:22 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Amen to Draxor.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)December 6, 2009 at 12:03 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Wow Draxor,
you know VERY LITTLE about our legal system, not to mention the Bill of Rights. We are SUPPOSED TO PRESUME INNOCENCE, that is not denial, it is the judicial system we live with, and we have such a system because it is far worse to presume guilt. I have been a victim of child molestation, and believe in speaking out, but I am not unwise enough to presume the guilt of ANYONE!
rookiebear (anonymous profile)you know VERY LITTLE about our legal system, not to mention the Bill of Rights. We are SUPPOSED TO PRESUME INNOCENCE, that is not denial, it is the judicial system we live with, and we have such a system because it is far worse to presume guilt. I have been a victim of child molestation, and believe in speaking out, but I am not unwise enough to presume the guilt of ANYONE!
December 6, 2009 at 12:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)
What is written in the Bill of Rights is one thing, what is actually done is another.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)December 6, 2009 at 12:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Draxor, you made your and sleep inducing point but the last time I looked, ridiculous as it may seem to you, free speech has not been banned. Though verbal diarrhoea absolutely should be.
As I have said " In other words, one should not jump ( hastily) to conclusions and make assumptions............. .
samuel (anonymous profile)As I have said " In other words, one should not jump ( hastily) to conclusions and make assumptions............. .
December 6, 2009 at 1:58 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Draxor's comments are distressing...Nobody is "vilifying" anyone. Only objecting to complaints about the bail amount because of Jeff's 93108 zip code and the judgement of guilt based on his unflattering photograph and rush to convict a man without a fair trial. I reread all the posts herein and don't agree that anyone is "jumping into the deep end of denial". And certainly no one is "trying to justify and sanitize their association" with Jeffrey Johnson. Whether he's guilty or not, no one else is implicated just because they have been his friend or associate or customer. Not a single post attempts to throw the victims under the bus nor diminish the gravity of such crimes. Draxor's use of such denegrating terms as "misguided judgement" and "frantic backpeddling" to describe the heartfelt testimonials of a community stunned by these allegations is way out of line.
jeffchemnick (anonymous profile)December 6, 2009 at 5:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
On EdHat, someone posted that the typical child molester victimizes 117 kids. The typical molester also begins molesting children by age 15.
So it is extremely relevant that Jeff, who is 58 and has spent decades in the community surrounded by kids, has never before been suspected or accused of anything.
People don't just wake up at 55 with a brand new deviant fetish for young girls. There being NO other alleged victims is food for thought where guilt or innocence are concerned.
Obviously child sexual abuse is a very serious crime and children need to be vigorously protected. On the other hand, false and defamatory allegations of abuse are also very serious, and innocent people being accused also need to be protected.
LWH16 (anonymous profile)So it is extremely relevant that Jeff, who is 58 and has spent decades in the community surrounded by kids, has never before been suspected or accused of anything.
People don't just wake up at 55 with a brand new deviant fetish for young girls. There being NO other alleged victims is food for thought where guilt or innocence are concerned.
Obviously child sexual abuse is a very serious crime and children need to be vigorously protected. On the other hand, false and defamatory allegations of abuse are also very serious, and innocent people being accused also need to be protected.
December 6, 2009 at 7:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The wide and rapid dissemination of Jeff Johnson's photo is clearly an attempt to find other victims. As pointed out by LWH16, this man doesn't fit the 'profile' of a molester, as demonstrated by the many testimonials regarding his past behavior.
It leads one to believe that this may be a matter of he said she said.
It will be important to see the actual nature of the evidence in this case. What for instance do these sisters' teachers say about their behavior? Do they reflect any of the established traits of the victimized? Who are the witnesses? How did such behavior continue over three years?
There is much to be learned, and the fact that our law idealizes innocence until proven guilty obviously doesn't extend that ideal to human nature.
What Draxor writes is far more revealing about Draxor than illuminating in this matter.
Unfortunately we live in a society that has become suspicious of any male who gives care to children. Any man who spends time alone with children is open to accusation. The police have an obligation to follow up any accusation.
Let us hope that clear evidence is at hand, and that a just and appropriate resolution is reached.
Once this process starts, it is hard to imagine any good ends.. One hopes that the same community rallies to the victims, and the accused at this time. It is a difficult time, with little likelihood of healing itself no matter how the case unfolds. I applaud the sober and slow to judge posting here.
visionmatters (anonymous profile)It leads one to believe that this may be a matter of he said she said.
It will be important to see the actual nature of the evidence in this case. What for instance do these sisters' teachers say about their behavior? Do they reflect any of the established traits of the victimized? Who are the witnesses? How did such behavior continue over three years?
There is much to be learned, and the fact that our law idealizes innocence until proven guilty obviously doesn't extend that ideal to human nature.
What Draxor writes is far more revealing about Draxor than illuminating in this matter.
Unfortunately we live in a society that has become suspicious of any male who gives care to children. Any man who spends time alone with children is open to accusation. The police have an obligation to follow up any accusation.
Let us hope that clear evidence is at hand, and that a just and appropriate resolution is reached.
Once this process starts, it is hard to imagine any good ends.. One hopes that the same community rallies to the victims, and the accused at this time. It is a difficult time, with little likelihood of healing itself no matter how the case unfolds. I applaud the sober and slow to judge posting here.
December 7, 2009 at 10:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Samuel: When you can spell "diarrhea", you can accuse someone of spewing it. Until then, wake-up, acquaint yourself with English, and go back to sleep. I used it quite clearly, without any more added defecatory spewage than usual. Contrary to "visionmatters" assertion of being non-slow-to-judge (yet quick-to-assume) that what I write somehow reveals more about my own failings than to this case, I stand by each of my statements. Apparently, vision doesn't matter. I see both rookie & jeff have come out in defense of their friend of many years. That you "cannot imagine" him having done this has already pre-occluded your judgment & compromised the very impartiality you accused me of lacking.
Sorry to "distress" you, jeffchemnick. Let us agree that your reading of previous posts has left you lacking in the areas of understanding & impartiality. I'm not trying this case, rookiebear, as my summation at the end of my post demonstrates. This is an opinion & reaction forum, not a court of law. If you cannot tell the difference, I suggest you visit our local courthouse for an afternoon tour.
I've already gone through this. I had an acquaintance who is now a registered sex offender for life because of an illegal indiscretion. In his case, I neither pre-defended him nor made any attempt to "cover my own ass" as to my apparent lack of associative character judgment. I confronted him as to the veracity of the accusations & knew immediately by his demeanor he was indeed guilty. The court system convicted him; he served his time.
Have you confronted your friend yet? I suggest you do so as soon as possible because you may be surprised to discover that the person you thought you knew is a stranger to you at his most secret core. By all means-stand by him. Because the judicial system provides for the presumption of innocence, it does not infer or confer or that he is innocent. Stand by him & if he is found guilty of these allegations, will you not then stand by the victims in condemning the actions of your friend? (I would point out that I added the word "alleged" in front of the word criminal or crime in my original post. You did all see that, right?)
And yes, people can just "wake up at 55" & perform heinous acts. Don't you read your local police blotters loaded with criminal rookies who, at some deviated stage of their late development, decided crime might provide some new & interesting career opportunities? History (and our prison system) is replete with such people who went on to illustrious criminal careers, many demonstrating rather inventive, if latent, talents for inhumanity to man. My guess is that "hencity" looks rather a lot like it as evidenced by the terse old yarn: "History repeats itself."
AZ2SB can apparently read more than a little better than some of you. I thank him for that. Truth often hurts. But as the old proverb states: "The beginning of wisdom is to call things by their true names."
Draxor (anonymous profile)Sorry to "distress" you, jeffchemnick. Let us agree that your reading of previous posts has left you lacking in the areas of understanding & impartiality. I'm not trying this case, rookiebear, as my summation at the end of my post demonstrates. This is an opinion & reaction forum, not a court of law. If you cannot tell the difference, I suggest you visit our local courthouse for an afternoon tour.
I've already gone through this. I had an acquaintance who is now a registered sex offender for life because of an illegal indiscretion. In his case, I neither pre-defended him nor made any attempt to "cover my own ass" as to my apparent lack of associative character judgment. I confronted him as to the veracity of the accusations & knew immediately by his demeanor he was indeed guilty. The court system convicted him; he served his time.
Have you confronted your friend yet? I suggest you do so as soon as possible because you may be surprised to discover that the person you thought you knew is a stranger to you at his most secret core. By all means-stand by him. Because the judicial system provides for the presumption of innocence, it does not infer or confer or that he is innocent. Stand by him & if he is found guilty of these allegations, will you not then stand by the victims in condemning the actions of your friend? (I would point out that I added the word "alleged" in front of the word criminal or crime in my original post. You did all see that, right?)
And yes, people can just "wake up at 55" & perform heinous acts. Don't you read your local police blotters loaded with criminal rookies who, at some deviated stage of their late development, decided crime might provide some new & interesting career opportunities? History (and our prison system) is replete with such people who went on to illustrious criminal careers, many demonstrating rather inventive, if latent, talents for inhumanity to man. My guess is that "hencity" looks rather a lot like it as evidenced by the terse old yarn: "History repeats itself."
AZ2SB can apparently read more than a little better than some of you. I thank him for that. Truth often hurts. But as the old proverb states: "The beginning of wisdom is to call things by their true names."
December 7, 2009 at 1:34 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Draxor said:
"I confronted him as to the veracity of the accusations & knew immediately by his demeanor he was indeed guilty."
We're evaluating demeanor too-- but I guess that only works if you decide the person is guilty?
LWH16 (anonymous profile)"I confronted him as to the veracity of the accusations & knew immediately by his demeanor he was indeed guilty."
We're evaluating demeanor too-- but I guess that only works if you decide the person is guilty?
December 8, 2009 at 6 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Draxor:
It is obvious that you spent considerable time writing the above, and cleverly justifying your judgement of the rest of us. You assume too much in that regard. If you had read my post as well as you claim to have you would notice that I stand very strongly in favor of the girls protection and care, and that I do not claim to know what happened, or if my friend is guilty. You are a bit pompous, don't you think, to speak with so superior a voice when the truth is that NONE of us knows exactly what happened? You claim to 'know' by a persons 'demeanor' if they are guilty or not. What amazing and super-natural talents you possess. Bully for you, humility is not something you suffer from, nor are you troubled by waiting for the burden of evidence before knowing the truth. I have no need for your approval, nor am I concerned by what you think of those of us who voice concern for a friend. I am very grateful however, that neither those children who may have been victimized, nor Jeffery who may be innocent, will have to depend on your magical skills of observation to find justice.
rookiebear (anonymous profile)It is obvious that you spent considerable time writing the above, and cleverly justifying your judgement of the rest of us. You assume too much in that regard. If you had read my post as well as you claim to have you would notice that I stand very strongly in favor of the girls protection and care, and that I do not claim to know what happened, or if my friend is guilty. You are a bit pompous, don't you think, to speak with so superior a voice when the truth is that NONE of us knows exactly what happened? You claim to 'know' by a persons 'demeanor' if they are guilty or not. What amazing and super-natural talents you possess. Bully for you, humility is not something you suffer from, nor are you troubled by waiting for the burden of evidence before knowing the truth. I have no need for your approval, nor am I concerned by what you think of those of us who voice concern for a friend. I am very grateful however, that neither those children who may have been victimized, nor Jeffery who may be innocent, will have to depend on your magical skills of observation to find justice.
December 8, 2009 at 6:18 p.m. (Suggest removal)
They had to depend on the Detective's "magical skills" of observation though, that is why he was arrested.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)December 8, 2009 at 7:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Rookie: It is obvious your smarting response to my post hit the mark by your reference to those with differing pre-occluded views than yours as exhibiting pompousness & possessed of magical prowess.
First of all, to the charges of pomposity & magical powers: I am not God. Those qualities are best kept reserved for supreme objects of devotion by those who actually believe in such things as "divine" beings.
Your reading skills are obviously far more lacking than my own because you apparently missed the part wherein I stated my "magical" ability to discern the truth in a similar matter happened with ONE person---a singular acquaintance whose reaction to my pointed inquiry was unmistakable and who was subsequently found guilty by a court of law of indecency with a minor.
Magic? Well, okay, sure. If you insist.
I have to ask: Were you the model for that marble statue of a blindfolded woman who stands holding a balance scale? You must be because apparently you lack the ability to tell if someone, by an obvious reaction to a simple question, is being truthful or evasive.
People must take advantage of you and LWH16 all the time in such matters of common and logical adult discernment. Yup, you've no clue whatsoever as to how all those cookies escaped from the jar and are at a complete loss to ferret the source of those suspect crumbs clinging to the mouth of your denying child.
So you believe everyone tells the truth? How then do you reconcile the accusations of the girls then with your friend's deni-----wait, we don't know if he's actually denied the charges yet, do we. But don't allow that to stand between your suspect impartiality and your peremptory defense of him.
I've no need to "justify" my judgment of some of you as you've stated your own cases quite clearly. I merely attempt to point out the obvious to the oblivious.
That I express my opinions on this issue more cleverly than you do is no reason to veil your personal aspersions. Be clear and concise in your character accusations of my lacking in "patience & humility." Please. Apparently, you posses powers greater than I do in these matters. I am in awe.
So, let's agree to meet here in this forum of commentary as this case proceeds because I will indeed follow it along with the unfolding facts as they are revealed. (Not that you require my views as you have stated clearly that you care not at all about what I think, we can at least agree this point is mutual).
And thanks again to AZ2SB for summing it up perfectly: "magical detectives" are what matter here. They and a jury of peers (should it go that far) hold all the wands.
Bye for now; time to retreat back into my shiny little rub-a-dub lamp. :-)
Draxor (anonymous profile)First of all, to the charges of pomposity & magical powers: I am not God. Those qualities are best kept reserved for supreme objects of devotion by those who actually believe in such things as "divine" beings.
Your reading skills are obviously far more lacking than my own because you apparently missed the part wherein I stated my "magical" ability to discern the truth in a similar matter happened with ONE person---a singular acquaintance whose reaction to my pointed inquiry was unmistakable and who was subsequently found guilty by a court of law of indecency with a minor.
Magic? Well, okay, sure. If you insist.
I have to ask: Were you the model for that marble statue of a blindfolded woman who stands holding a balance scale? You must be because apparently you lack the ability to tell if someone, by an obvious reaction to a simple question, is being truthful or evasive.
People must take advantage of you and LWH16 all the time in such matters of common and logical adult discernment. Yup, you've no clue whatsoever as to how all those cookies escaped from the jar and are at a complete loss to ferret the source of those suspect crumbs clinging to the mouth of your denying child.
So you believe everyone tells the truth? How then do you reconcile the accusations of the girls then with your friend's deni-----wait, we don't know if he's actually denied the charges yet, do we. But don't allow that to stand between your suspect impartiality and your peremptory defense of him.
I've no need to "justify" my judgment of some of you as you've stated your own cases quite clearly. I merely attempt to point out the obvious to the oblivious.
That I express my opinions on this issue more cleverly than you do is no reason to veil your personal aspersions. Be clear and concise in your character accusations of my lacking in "patience & humility." Please. Apparently, you posses powers greater than I do in these matters. I am in awe.
So, let's agree to meet here in this forum of commentary as this case proceeds because I will indeed follow it along with the unfolding facts as they are revealed. (Not that you require my views as you have stated clearly that you care not at all about what I think, we can at least agree this point is mutual).
And thanks again to AZ2SB for summing it up perfectly: "magical detectives" are what matter here. They and a jury of peers (should it go that far) hold all the wands.
Bye for now; time to retreat back into my shiny little rub-a-dub lamp. :-)
December 9, 2009 at 11:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)
@Draxor
The more you respond, and the more verbose you are, tends to move you away from any objectivity with which you may have begun in this discussion.
You started out with your opinion, apparently to defend those fall on the "presumed-guilty" side of the argument:
"I find it ridiculous that these people who have come out defending this alleged abuser and molester vilify those who are presupposing his guilt in committing these heinous acts as they presuppose his innocence.
It is a very telling human reaction for someone to jump into the deep end of denial as they attempt to justify and sanitize their various associations with this guy."
Up to that point, I had not noticed anyone being "vilified", but given that I could understand that any of the "presumed-innocent" folks *might* have done so, I allow that it may have happened. However, in your zeal to "attack the attackers", so to speak--and, no doubt influenced by your own friendship with a child-molester--you have now slid into returning ad hominem attacks, after provoking the same.
I GET, what I think you originally intended--that it was ironic (not, "ridiculous") that the supporters of Mr. Johnson would berate those who would presume guilty, while they were presuming innocence. However, it *is* written, with that wording: Innocent, until proven guilty.
I myself tend to look at it more like a case of Shroedinger's Molester, where there exists both an innocent Mr. Johnson, as well as a guilty one--until such time one is unveiled unto the world. . . .
On a more personal level, I might imagine that you write out of less of any need to showcase your "magical powers", than to assuage your guilt, at having been originally duped into being friends with the one you found out to be a molester. Of course, that's just an opinion as well.
equus_posteriori (anonymous profile)The more you respond, and the more verbose you are, tends to move you away from any objectivity with which you may have begun in this discussion.
You started out with your opinion, apparently to defend those fall on the "presumed-guilty" side of the argument:
"I find it ridiculous that these people who have come out defending this alleged abuser and molester vilify those who are presupposing his guilt in committing these heinous acts as they presuppose his innocence.
It is a very telling human reaction for someone to jump into the deep end of denial as they attempt to justify and sanitize their various associations with this guy."
Up to that point, I had not noticed anyone being "vilified", but given that I could understand that any of the "presumed-innocent" folks *might* have done so, I allow that it may have happened. However, in your zeal to "attack the attackers", so to speak--and, no doubt influenced by your own friendship with a child-molester--you have now slid into returning ad hominem attacks, after provoking the same.
I GET, what I think you originally intended--that it was ironic (not, "ridiculous") that the supporters of Mr. Johnson would berate those who would presume guilty, while they were presuming innocence. However, it *is* written, with that wording: Innocent, until proven guilty.
I myself tend to look at it more like a case of Shroedinger's Molester, where there exists both an innocent Mr. Johnson, as well as a guilty one--until such time one is unveiled unto the world. . . .
On a more personal level, I might imagine that you write out of less of any need to showcase your "magical powers", than to assuage your guilt, at having been originally duped into being friends with the one you found out to be a molester. Of course, that's just an opinion as well.
December 9, 2009 at 12:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)
For those of you who want to convict him without hearing the evidence, read this:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McMartin...
billclausen (anonymous profile)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/McMartin...
December 9, 2009 at 6:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"Buckey was retried later on six of the 13 counts, which produced another hung jury. The prosecution then gave up trying to obtain a conviction, and the case was closed with all charges against Ray Buckey dismissed. He had been jailed for 5 years without ever being convicted of any wrongdoing.[1][21][31"
billclausen (anonymous profile)December 9, 2009 at 6:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Poor Draxor,
It must be SO difficult to communicate with your inferiors. Those dupes who believe in 'innocence' preceding 'proven guilt', trusting in the judicial system and not your intuitive skills. Ahhh, so tough to be you.
Reasonable, clever, superior you.
rookiebear (anonymous profile)It must be SO difficult to communicate with your inferiors. Those dupes who believe in 'innocence' preceding 'proven guilt', trusting in the judicial system and not your intuitive skills. Ahhh, so tough to be you.
Reasonable, clever, superior you.
December 9, 2009 at 9:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The above is my last comment on the subject. Equus, I bow to your skills, thank you.
rookiebear (anonymous profile)December 9, 2009 at 9:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Horses, dolphins and bears. What next?
sixdolphins (anonymous profile)December 9, 2009 at 9:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Not that it matters where he lives, but if I am correct, the portion of Mountain he lives on is in the 93103 zip code and not 93108. So Montecito has nothing to do with this article, right?
m2457 (anonymous profile)December 10, 2009 at 2:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Right. In fact one could go further and say very few of the over - the - hill remarks and opinions displayed in some of these comments have very little at all to with this police report.....
samuel (anonymous profile)December 10, 2009 at 5:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I've known Jeff Johnson for 40 years. He has always seemed to me a gentle and respectful man. My heart is very heavy for what these charges represent for him and for the alleged victims. Many of you are closer to Jeff and thus know him on a much more familiar and regular basis. He and I only see each other periodically by happenstance. But our contact is one which may be fairly typical of long-time Santa Barbarans: sharing numerous common friends, being somewhat aging hippies, knowing what it means to survive here in the construction trades, and understanding the challenges of seeing & feeling a beloved Bohemian community dissipating with time and threatened by the financial colonialism waged upon the entire south coast of Santa Barbara by persons of extreme wealth and privilege. I assure you that he is neither wealthy nor significantly privileged.
I have no inkling of his guilt or innocence regarding the charges. It is difficult to imagine his guilt. He dated my Swiss exchange student sister when I first knew him (in high school). And I know from her stated feelings that he was charming and sweet to her. Perhaps this means nothing with the passage of time, but my hope would be to see that there is no rush to judgement.
If the charges prove true it is a devastating reality . . . the marring scars for victims of sexual molestation are usually worn far beyond the event. And those of us for whom Jeff has been a bright and productive member of our community will feel a friend is lost to incarceration.
If the accusations are false it is only slightly less horrific, as the court of societal opinion is often far less forgiving and less reasonable than the judicial process. Additionally, if the charges are found to be false the accusers typically will not be held accountable for the havoc and expense caused by whatever motivated their accusations. Either way this is a sad turn of events.
timbristol (anonymous profile)I have no inkling of his guilt or innocence regarding the charges. It is difficult to imagine his guilt. He dated my Swiss exchange student sister when I first knew him (in high school). And I know from her stated feelings that he was charming and sweet to her. Perhaps this means nothing with the passage of time, but my hope would be to see that there is no rush to judgement.
If the charges prove true it is a devastating reality . . . the marring scars for victims of sexual molestation are usually worn far beyond the event. And those of us for whom Jeff has been a bright and productive member of our community will feel a friend is lost to incarceration.
If the accusations are false it is only slightly less horrific, as the court of societal opinion is often far less forgiving and less reasonable than the judicial process. Additionally, if the charges are found to be false the accusers typically will not be held accountable for the havoc and expense caused by whatever motivated their accusations. Either way this is a sad turn of events.
December 11, 2009 at 1:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Alas, a horse's ass in Latin remains a horse's ass. Your point on that matter well-proven, me bucko.
Please--stay to your own side of the verbosity aisle while you smother us with sillyisms of, well, let's say while surely double-wide, decidedly of inferior substance.
I think you need to recalibrate that broken objectometer in your sweaty little hands because you're anything but. Or is that BUTT. Yes, as your moniker truthfully states. At least you're proving that part correct.
And little Rookie jumping on the siderailed bandwagon because he cannot come up with a coherent argument or point-of-view approximating a rebuttal to what I posted, so instead he stows away on an icebound ship run aground onto shallow shoals of sophomoronic logic. (to shamelessly mix my metaphors)
Apparently you two brainiacs cannot read very well. What is it with so many people who own computers yet completely lack reading and comprehension skills.
And yes, you horseass---I will meet "ad hom" with ad hom because I am in possession of a pair and am quite willing to use them when shunted brainstems such as yourself prod me into doing so. I'm yer huckleberry.
One thing is for certain---Horseass is no detective, magical or otherwise. His erroneous conclusion that my own experience with---and let me spell this slowly and carefully for you HA---an A-C-Q-U-A-I-N-T-A-N-C-E has somehow beclouded my otherwise impeccable powers of discernment ranks more than a wiggle on the Ass-o-Meter.
Now get thee hence to a school, any school, and look into a subject titled ENGLISH. That's a good business for you. Get back to us once you've completed the course.
See you all back here in the Council Of Presumptory Innocence once the charges have been proven, unproven, or lost in the laughscape of Latin.
Draxor (anonymous profile)Please--stay to your own side of the verbosity aisle while you smother us with sillyisms of, well, let's say while surely double-wide, decidedly of inferior substance.
I think you need to recalibrate that broken objectometer in your sweaty little hands because you're anything but. Or is that BUTT. Yes, as your moniker truthfully states. At least you're proving that part correct.
And little Rookie jumping on the siderailed bandwagon because he cannot come up with a coherent argument or point-of-view approximating a rebuttal to what I posted, so instead he stows away on an icebound ship run aground onto shallow shoals of sophomoronic logic. (to shamelessly mix my metaphors)
Apparently you two brainiacs cannot read very well. What is it with so many people who own computers yet completely lack reading and comprehension skills.
And yes, you horseass---I will meet "ad hom" with ad hom because I am in possession of a pair and am quite willing to use them when shunted brainstems such as yourself prod me into doing so. I'm yer huckleberry.
One thing is for certain---Horseass is no detective, magical or otherwise. His erroneous conclusion that my own experience with---and let me spell this slowly and carefully for you HA---an A-C-Q-U-A-I-N-T-A-N-C-E has somehow beclouded my otherwise impeccable powers of discernment ranks more than a wiggle on the Ass-o-Meter.
Now get thee hence to a school, any school, and look into a subject titled ENGLISH. That's a good business for you. Get back to us once you've completed the course.
See you all back here in the Council Of Presumptory Innocence once the charges have been proven, unproven, or lost in the laughscape of Latin.
December 14, 2009 at 11:16 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Sharp wit and command of language mean so very little, if your heart is lacking the same development. Please, the world and this tragic situation need much more than brilliant blathering which reflects the ego's stranglehold on one's very being. Are we not more than our vocabulary, than our ability to show off our verbal skills? When we care as much about cultivating some understanding for people's tragic weaknesses, hope for redemption and respect for each other's viewpoints as impressing others with our "superiority", then perhaps there will be a remote chance for peace in this world.
As one who loves to blather on when I am gripped by my reactive ego, even I am exhausted by your impressive skill at debate and find it soooooooo sad that trumping others' comments is what our "intelligence" is dominated by so often. Seems that our hearts and humanity enjoy going on vacation while our minds and mouths are working overtime
As one who loves to blather on when I am gripped by my reactive ego, even I am exhausted by your impressive skill at debate and find it soooooooo sad that trumping others' comments is what our "intelligence" is dominated by so often. Seems that our hearts and humanity enjoy going on vacation while our minds and mouths are working overtime
Comments
Independent Discussion Guidelines Where are all you people who defended this scumbag? Didn't you people put some money together to get him a lawyer and bail? As for Zonen saying,"he did the standup thing"; for three years who wouldn't jump on that plea-bargain? This scum should not ever get out, because he will do the same thing if he ever gets the chance. When will we learn?
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 12, 2010 at 11:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This is b.s. didn't some other mexican scumbag who did a similar despicabe act get 15 to life? How is it this scumbag gets a 3 year stint? Either because he is white or because he was from Montecito. Where is the justice?
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 12, 2010 at 11:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This is a good man who made bad mistakes. Had I known he was going to court yesterday, I, too, would have been there to personally support him.
I imagine he got the sentence for doing exactly as Zonen said, standing up and taking responsibility. A 3-year sentence with a lifetime label is no joke. AZ2SB asks, Where is the justice? Hard question with an answer generally left to religion. We call it a justice system when in fact it is a punitive system.
I imagine he got the sentence for doing exactly as Zonen said, standing up and taking responsibility. A 3-year sentence with a lifetime label is no joke. AZ2SB asks, Where is the justice? Hard question with an answer generally left to religion. We call it a justice system when in fact it is a punitive system.
- AB in Santa Barbara
(this is not an attempt to lessen his acts, but it is the reality of sex abuse. As one who was abused, I am very very aware of the potential to abuse.)
andrewbaker77 (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 7:27 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Citti- Ask Jaycee Dugard or Chelsea King if the scumbags who abused them really had a tough time with the pittance of a sentence they received and the the label of a sex-offender. This stinks. Oh, and he was a good man who made bad mistakes? Penetrating a child with a foreign object and molesting the victim's sister is just a bad mistake? That makes him a monster in my eyes. Here is a man who robs a child's innocence and all he gets is 3 years? His victims will never be the same, they will go on to live troubled lives, but its ok because the abuser was a "good man". I thought Montecito had higher morals, but I guess that is a misconception.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 10:18 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I'm sure three years of hard time will be much more than a pittance to Johnson.
In general, the efficacy of a plea bargain is done to insure a swift resolution, and time served is frequently reduced from the mandated sentences. Avoiding the trauma of a trial seems worth a reduction in time served, and I bet the victims and family agree.
A tragedy all around; so many lives affected and ruined.
binky (anonymous profile)In general, the efficacy of a plea bargain is done to insure a swift resolution, and time served is frequently reduced from the mandated sentences. Avoiding the trauma of a trial seems worth a reduction in time served, and I bet the victims and family agree.
A tragedy all around; so many lives affected and ruined.
March 13, 2010 at 10:40 a.m. (Suggest removal)
It is inconceivable to imagine what the little girls must have gone through, and then in turn to experience the criticism and doubt about their story. Irreparable damage was done and there can be no father reading this today whose hair is not crawling up the back of his head, empathising and imagining his own feelings in a situation like this. One cannot shrug off and diminish this cruel and criminal act off as just a "bad mistake. Three years does not seem long enough. No doubt he will receive some kind of rehabilitation, and without access to children upon which to repeat his perverted acts, he will be discharged when the time comes as a model prisoner.
samuel (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 10:41 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Who cares what Johnson feels, its all about the victims and future victims this scumbag might get his hands on.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 11:13 a.m. (Suggest removal)
(This comment was removed by the site staff for violation of use policy.)
santabarbarasand (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 12:10 p.m.
The only justice in this situation is when the perpetrator has enough conscience to put a gun to their head and to spare the misery these girls and their families suffer knowing he still walks the earth and will, in so short at time as 3 years (half that if he is good prisoner right?) have the potential to hurt them or other little girls... There is nothing stand up about taking a plea, it is pure cowardice to get a lesser sentence. Had it gone to trial he would have lost and been locked away longer. Too bad our country doesn't castrate sex offenders!
santabarbarasand (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 12:13 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Why was I removed? Because I used the R word? It is what he did, it's not a curse word...
santabarbarasand (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 12:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Having personally experienced abuse myself as a child for an extended period, I am VERY familiar with the harm it can (but does not necessarily) cause. Things are much more complicated in life than A = B.
I completely agree with "Binky" -- this is a tragedy all around and I would (reasonably) respectfully urge those who scream vengeance to quiet. I sometimes wonder whether those who are so angry and so vengeful against others have never themselves (or had those they've loved/cared for) ever made mistakes.
citti (anonymous profile)I completely agree with "Binky" -- this is a tragedy all around and I would (reasonably) respectfully urge those who scream vengeance to quiet. I sometimes wonder whether those who are so angry and so vengeful against others have never themselves (or had those they've loved/cared for) ever made mistakes.
March 13, 2010 at 12:14 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I have made mistakes and gotten more time for a lesser crime than this scumbag. I changed my ways, but to believe that this scumbag will ever change is naive. Not only is it naive, but we sacrifice innocent children to give these people the benefit of the doubt.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 12:42 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I was a victim and that is where my feelings come from. And if anyone I loved chose to harm a child, something that I do not consider to be a simple mistake, I would want to see them suffer. I will scream vengeance from the mountaintops because it is those of you who stick up for these types of monsters that perpetuate the violation against innocent people. They are forgiven for killing an essential part of another person and stuck up for regardless of the emotional, mental and physical suffering that they chose to inflict on someone who was not able to fend them off. It is dispicable and cowardly and there is no excuse for the actions of the abuser or the protector of the abused.
santabarbarasand (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 1:43 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Oops, meant to say "or the protector of the abuser" no abused... it just sickens me that anyone could possibly come on here and try to defend such horrendous actions, I can't even comprehend that. Especially difficult to understand someone who has suffered abuse would try to stick up for this type of scum. Unbelievable.
santabarbarasand (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 1:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
santabarbarasand- You got the Montecito Mafia defending this scum that's probably why he got the deal he got. I agree that it adds insult to injury to have people defending this man and calling him a"good man" with what he did. What does he have to do to become a "bad man"? Probably not live in Montecito.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 1:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Child molestation is an epidemic in this country.
1 in 3 women report having been touched inappropriately before the age of 18. Experts believe the actual figures to be much higher.
This type of abuse is horrible, and very, very common.
This type of behavior in an adult is a type of mental illness.
We need to do a better job as a community of openly addressing this issue with both adults and children and we need to be proactive to prevent this type of abuse from happening again and again.
It is one thing say angry words about the crime and the criminal, but it is another to take action to try to prevent this from happening again.
Please consider what you can do, in your community, to bring this issue out into the light and to work to protect those around you.
GetOverOil (anonymous profile)1 in 3 women report having been touched inappropriately before the age of 18. Experts believe the actual figures to be much higher.
This type of abuse is horrible, and very, very common.
This type of behavior in an adult is a type of mental illness.
We need to do a better job as a community of openly addressing this issue with both adults and children and we need to be proactive to prevent this type of abuse from happening again and again.
It is one thing say angry words about the crime and the criminal, but it is another to take action to try to prevent this from happening again.
Please consider what you can do, in your community, to bring this issue out into the light and to work to protect those around you.
March 13, 2010 at 2:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Yea I remember that original blog string after this child molester was first arrested, and the high and mighty tripping all over themselves basically accusing these children of lying [of course, using other words to do so].
Those poor kids. Revictimized originally by this child molester, than over and over again by "family friends" who failed to believe them.
sbsleuth99 (anonymous profile)Those poor kids. Revictimized originally by this child molester, than over and over again by "family friends" who failed to believe them.
March 13, 2010 at 2:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Mr. Johnson may have pleaded no contest, not based on fellings of remorse, but because he and his lawyers believed that he would have lost the trial. Mr. Johnson may or may not actually be guilty of the crimes.
Herschel_Greenspan (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 3:59 p.m. (Suggest removal)
If he is falsely accused and not guilty clearly the poor man is resigned to a life of penury.
samuel (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 4:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Yeah, may not actually be guilty... right. He pled no contest because he knew he would lose in trial, likely because the experiences of the two little girls were detailed and intense enough to convict him. Hope he gets retribution from the other inmates so he knows what it feels like to be a victim. Does that make me sick? Perhaps... but I still hope it.
santabarbarasand (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 5:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)
"Hope he gets retribution from the other inmates so he knows what it feels like to be a victim. "
Anyone who advocates for violence is sick and needs help. santabarbarasand get some help now before you hurt yourself or others.
Herschel_Greenspan (anonymous profile)Anyone who advocates for violence is sick and needs help. santabarbarasand get some help now before you hurt yourself or others.
March 13, 2010 at 6 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Herschel, wake up. Or maybe you believe we should be nice and offer some kind of a reward to a scumbag like this. While violence is not the answer it sure as hell is a deterrent.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 6:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
An eye for an eye Herschel... who ever said what kind of eye? Seriously, you think that he shouldn't have to experience the type of abuse that he perpetrated? I'm not sick, I just think that the world isn't doing enough to protect the children from abuse, 3 years is nothing compared to the sentence he imposed on these little girls. I advocate for justice and for protection for our future. If you think that what he did is acceptable it is you that is sick.
santabarbarasand (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 9:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)
This is to AZ2SB, you should do your homework. Jeff Johnson does not live in the "Montecito" you are thinking of. He lives in the very bohemian enclave of the Mountain Drive community. Most of the homes are very small and low key and almost none of these people, including Jeff and his famlily, are rich. It was established in the 1950's and the Johnson family is one of the oldest famlies there. This explains how so many people rallied around him, they are all very close. It's a tragedy all around.
SBTraveler (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 10:47 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It is still Montecito even if it's a bohemian enclave. Are you from Montecito, and if so what is your take on this? Did you notice that some other scumbag was sentenced this week (German Acosta) and that he got 15 to life for his "bad mistakes"? This man's "bad mistakes" were only worth 3 years with half-time for good behavior and he will probably be off parole in 1 to 2 years. Do you believe this is just? Do you sympathize with the victimizer in this case?
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 13, 2010 at 11:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
It's on the very far outskirts and up in the hills. When you say Montecito you are really talking about a lifestyle and not a location. In this case the Mountain Drive community is far removed, physically, ideologically and monetarily. If there were modern day hippies this is how you would describe most all of them. I do know Jeff and also the young victims. Jeff clearly is getting off almost scott free because he plea bargained. He probably would have gotten 15 years if he had not, we don't know the situation with Acosta but doesn't seem he did the same so can't really compare the two. I think Jeff J. is sick and needs a lot of help. I can see from his face he is broken and shamed. He is paying some price at least.
SBTraveler (anonymous profile)March 14, 2010 at 9:25 a.m. (Suggest removal)
AZ2SB, you would be more productive if you worked with an organization that dealt with victims of sexual abuse. You obviously are passionate about the subject, but your judgmental, spouting off in virtual forums doesn't further knowledge, compassion or justice.
I don't condone sexual abuse of any kind, against man woman or child. A person's body is exclusively their domain and it must be respected; however I'm curious about the legal strategy that we're witnessing.
We don't know anything, recognize that first Az2Sb
The case will not go forward, we'll never know the facts. The prosecutor agreed to this sentence which leads me to think that while some abuse occurred, it was not as prolonged and pervasive as the press stated it.
Again, I'm not justifying Jeff's actions. They can't be condoned, but the law saw fit to sentence him as they did.
Jeff is a friend, and I will never know what actually happened, but he has my compassion as a human being with flaws (who of us doesn't have any?).
I value the fact that he has admitted his wrongdoing and spared all involved the pain and agony of trial. He will serve his sentence, hopefully receive counseling and must live the rest of his life with the public stigma of his actions.
It is my hope that the girls will receive the love and attention they need to flower into healthy young women.
oyansa (anonymous profile)I don't condone sexual abuse of any kind, against man woman or child. A person's body is exclusively their domain and it must be respected; however I'm curious about the legal strategy that we're witnessing.
We don't know anything, recognize that first Az2Sb
The case will not go forward, we'll never know the facts. The prosecutor agreed to this sentence which leads me to think that while some abuse occurred, it was not as prolonged and pervasive as the press stated it.
Again, I'm not justifying Jeff's actions. They can't be condoned, but the law saw fit to sentence him as they did.
Jeff is a friend, and I will never know what actually happened, but he has my compassion as a human being with flaws (who of us doesn't have any?).
I value the fact that he has admitted his wrongdoing and spared all involved the pain and agony of trial. He will serve his sentence, hopefully receive counseling and must live the rest of his life with the public stigma of his actions.
It is my hope that the girls will receive the love and attention they need to flower into healthy young women.
March 14, 2010 at 9:44 a.m. (Suggest removal)
This case has been compared on here with the Acosta case. Aggravated assault and offering money ( we assume for sex) were mentioned in the case of the latter. I guess we will never know but one has to wonder where in the intricacies of the law would lie the difference between Johnson's - I quote - "mistake" and the actions of Acosta. What would influence the decision of a sentence of three years for one man's " mistake" and 15 years to life for the other ? In both instances a person performed illegal, criminal and life altering violations on another person's body, causing mental and physical trauma. Is it considered less catastrophic to deliberately run over someone with a bike and break their legs, or simply get a baseball bat and do the same job? The results are the same so logically one would expect the same punishment to be handed out.
samuel (anonymous profile)March 14, 2010 at 12:12 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Exactly!! I've broken an ankle and I healed better from that than from the sexual abuse I suffered... with the ankle, you think it's strong but sometimes it gets twisted and hurts a lot more than a regular sprained ankle should. With the assualt, you think you're healed until you hear a noise in the middle of the night and you realize you can't breathe. At least with the ankle you can put some ice on it and take an ibuprofen! With sexual assault, you get pulled back to when you felt helpless and even worse, when you tell people and they don't believe you then you also feel that you're bad and it's your fault. Those feelings are not easily healed and they come back at the worst times to haunt you. Shame on anyone who condones this monster's actions and thinks that his sentence is appropriate or that he is a stand up guy or good guy in any way. He took pleasure in hurting little girls in the most intimate way possible.
santabarbarasand (anonymous profile)March 14, 2010 at 12:20 p.m. (Suggest removal)
(This comment was removed by the site staff for violation of use policy.)
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 14, 2010 at 1:43 p.m.
oyansa.
People feel strongly about this subject. Your friend has shocked and surprised you, and you naturally feel sympathy for him. However, with respect we do have an idea what happened. If not,why the court appearances, the reports, and why are we here discussing the situation? Others however cannot be in your shoes and understand where your thoughts are coming from. Certainly we all have flaws, but "flaw" diminishes the serious and grave actions of this man, and the resulting hurt and pain of the girls and their family. You say, and I quote, "The prosecutor agreed to this sentence which leads me to think that while some abuse occurred, it was not as prolonged and pervasive as the press stated it." In your opinion how long would you assume abuse has to continue before it becomes unacceptable? One would assume one incident would suffice to bring in the authorities.
samuel (anonymous profile)People feel strongly about this subject. Your friend has shocked and surprised you, and you naturally feel sympathy for him. However, with respect we do have an idea what happened. If not,why the court appearances, the reports, and why are we here discussing the situation? Others however cannot be in your shoes and understand where your thoughts are coming from. Certainly we all have flaws, but "flaw" diminishes the serious and grave actions of this man, and the resulting hurt and pain of the girls and their family. You say, and I quote, "The prosecutor agreed to this sentence which leads me to think that while some abuse occurred, it was not as prolonged and pervasive as the press stated it." In your opinion how long would you assume abuse has to continue before it becomes unacceptable? One would assume one incident would suffice to bring in the authorities.
March 14, 2010 at 1:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Please argue your positions, not insult those with whom you disagree.
-- Web Admin
-- Web Admin
March 14, 2010 at 1:54 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Ok, I apologize, but to defend someone like this is infuriating to me. Looking at current events involving other pedophiles and sexual offenders makes me realize that our system is failing when it comes to protecting society from these predators. The predators and their enablers are to blame. In every major recent case involving predators of this kind it has been acquaintances, family, tolerant D.A. and lenient judges who are to blame for permitting predators to return to society and victimize again.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 14, 2010 at 3:37 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The Perp, can NOT be held in Population (regular jail cell) for fear he will be abused or killed by other inmates, he will either be placed in solidary confindment or at the honor farm for his own protection. Those who feel so ademant or vengful against the Perp or you can wait until his release and seek your own brand of justice or contact an inmate on the inside to do or pay them to extract retribution. Remember, Santa Barbara County Jail and California Prison system is full of illegal SM-13 Inmates who take their personal pleasure in maiming or killing others. They are more than willing to make a little cash, taking other people out of the equation of life even in our Justice System.
As for those who you feel "enable" the perp to continue committing crimes (for their bleeding heart), hurt them publicly by associating them to the Perp and the crime committed, with letter to News Agencies other than the Local Rag (L.A. News Press, SF News Press, NY Post), The local rag will pick up the story under the AP, and post without even proof reading the story. Start gathering names if the "Enabler's" hold a Public Office or Office of interest and oust them even before the next electon occurs.
Do NOT take any drastic steps against them or personally Physycally attack them. Remember, they have the power of their position to protect them, take that away and they loose their protection from prececution.
Da Man.
dou4now (anonymous profile)As for those who you feel "enable" the perp to continue committing crimes (for their bleeding heart), hurt them publicly by associating them to the Perp and the crime committed, with letter to News Agencies other than the Local Rag (L.A. News Press, SF News Press, NY Post), The local rag will pick up the story under the AP, and post without even proof reading the story. Start gathering names if the "Enabler's" hold a Public Office or Office of interest and oust them even before the next electon occurs.
Do NOT take any drastic steps against them or personally Physycally attack them. Remember, they have the power of their position to protect them, take that away and they loose their protection from prececution.
Da Man.
March 14, 2010 at 5:05 p.m. (Suggest removal)
hi samuel,
you quoted me correctly, however i did not conclude that abuse is acceptable. i stated twice it isnt.
we agree on that point.
oyansa (anonymous profile)you quoted me correctly, however i did not conclude that abuse is acceptable. i stated twice it isnt.
we agree on that point.
March 14, 2010 at 6:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Racism raises it's ugly head again in SB.
Just last week some poor mexican got life for the same thing but with one kid....this perv did it to two kids and gets 3 years.
Racism in SB, especially at the prosecutors office is RAMPANT.....people of color....do not get busted in SB they will throw away the key.
Now, you nice white rich guys; and gals.....do what you want.
Or how about the black lady a few months ago that got 15 years for dui homicide while almost the same week another white lady from montecito got NO JAIL time for the same crime.
Look Out you Judges and Prosecutors.....when the revolution comes you will be the first in line for your just deserts.
Remember...God is watching and he will remember and he is going to mess you up when you try to enter the pearly gates. FAIL
rstein9 (anonymous profile)Just last week some poor mexican got life for the same thing but with one kid....this perv did it to two kids and gets 3 years.
Racism in SB, especially at the prosecutors office is RAMPANT.....people of color....do not get busted in SB they will throw away the key.
Now, you nice white rich guys; and gals.....do what you want.
Or how about the black lady a few months ago that got 15 years for dui homicide while almost the same week another white lady from montecito got NO JAIL time for the same crime.
Look Out you Judges and Prosecutors.....when the revolution comes you will be the first in line for your just deserts.
Remember...God is watching and he will remember and he is going to mess you up when you try to enter the pearly gates. FAIL
March 15, 2010 at 7:24 a.m. (Suggest removal)
rstein9, santabarasand, sbsleuth99 etc...
Now that Jeffery Johnson has been sentenced may we let the healing begin??? Please.
Let's wake up and stop the mean spirit of vengeance. Jeffery needs help just like anyone who has violated our shared human values of safety, caring and wellbeing of our children. Yes, he violated vulnerable girls and they will need a lot of healing, as will all parties involved. However, his crime doesn't negate the decent human attributes that this man possesses or those of German Acosta. They both got terribly and inappropriately carried away in their arousal and failed to draw the line. WHO among us is perfect??? We are so quick to completely demonize and consider people unredeemable for their sins. I bet that you are secretly ashamed of a thing or two that hasn't been printed on the front page for your family and all to see...
Remember, an eye for an eye, makes the whole world blind... revenge just perpetuates abuse and violence and does not heal it. Yes, he needs to do his time and take responsibility. However, as the victim of abuse myself, those little girls' healing will be better served to see and hear and get to process Jeffrey's remorse and humble pleas for amends rather than to spend their lifetimes in bitter hatred and disgust that is promoted by so many. The profound transformation of their healing that may be brought about by his sincere penance and their chance to grieve and rage with proper support over time would do so much more for the girls than hearing and reading in the news that he shot himself in the head or was violently abused and punished by vengeful vigilantes (as some suggest) whose only response to tragedy is creating more tragedy. Are we not capable of evolving?
White, black, brown, yellow or rainbow colored, west side, east side, or mountain drive (more down-home and humble than you may know) - Can we please STOP the battle by taking sides against our fellow SB homies - we're all in this together. Paz ~ Your Half Breed Hermana
AHalloran33 (anonymous profile)Now that Jeffery Johnson has been sentenced may we let the healing begin??? Please.
Let's wake up and stop the mean spirit of vengeance. Jeffery needs help just like anyone who has violated our shared human values of safety, caring and wellbeing of our children. Yes, he violated vulnerable girls and they will need a lot of healing, as will all parties involved. However, his crime doesn't negate the decent human attributes that this man possesses or those of German Acosta. They both got terribly and inappropriately carried away in their arousal and failed to draw the line. WHO among us is perfect??? We are so quick to completely demonize and consider people unredeemable for their sins. I bet that you are secretly ashamed of a thing or two that hasn't been printed on the front page for your family and all to see...
Remember, an eye for an eye, makes the whole world blind... revenge just perpetuates abuse and violence and does not heal it. Yes, he needs to do his time and take responsibility. However, as the victim of abuse myself, those little girls' healing will be better served to see and hear and get to process Jeffrey's remorse and humble pleas for amends rather than to spend their lifetimes in bitter hatred and disgust that is promoted by so many. The profound transformation of their healing that may be brought about by his sincere penance and their chance to grieve and rage with proper support over time would do so much more for the girls than hearing and reading in the news that he shot himself in the head or was violently abused and punished by vengeful vigilantes (as some suggest) whose only response to tragedy is creating more tragedy. Are we not capable of evolving?
White, black, brown, yellow or rainbow colored, west side, east side, or mountain drive (more down-home and humble than you may know) - Can we please STOP the battle by taking sides against our fellow SB homies - we're all in this together. Paz ~ Your Half Breed Hermana
March 15, 2010 at 11:28 a.m. (Suggest removal)
rstein9- There is nothing to feel sorry about that mexican scumbug who abused his niece. It isn't about race when it comes to these people, they should all get the book thrown at them. What isn't right is that Mr.Johnson will have a chance to abuse again while Mr.Acosta won't. It is a false belief that he will change the way he thinks. The only thing that stops them is to keep them away and of course the threat of violence or abuse by others for their crimes. To all you bleeding hearts, please give me a case of ONE just ONE sexual predator who has been rehabilitated.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 15, 2010 at 12:28 p.m. (Suggest removal)
AHalloran33- Before we let the healing begin we must operate the cancer, which in this case is Mr.Johnson. While it might not heal a person completely to know that the person who abused you is gone and never coming back; it helps. As far as SB homies, any pedophile or sexual predator is no friend, homie, or anything else of mine. As a matter of fact they might as well be from Pluto, that is how alien they are to me. You want to talk of evolution, how about eliminating the sexual predators who perpetuate this chain of abuse?
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 15, 2010 at 12:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Yes, indeed, like I said last year when all you stalwart defenders of the indefensible who could not fathom that "your friend" could/would do something like this. And now here we are---convicted and sentenced.
I agree with AZ---this scumbucket bastard should be locked away for life because we all know---say it with me in harmony, everybody---he'll do it again once he's out.
We have got to do something more permanent to sexual predators whose "little indiscretions" can kill. So many victims of these monsters cannot abide or endure their lifelong shame and often take their own lives. For others, it's a very difficult and pain-filled road to becoming whole again.
Molester Johnson will hopefully meet his namesake in prison who might well show him the unwanted "tenderness" he showed his victims.
Karma baby---it's a bitch with your name attached.
Draxor (anonymous profile)I agree with AZ---this scumbucket bastard should be locked away for life because we all know---say it with me in harmony, everybody---he'll do it again once he's out.
We have got to do something more permanent to sexual predators whose "little indiscretions" can kill. So many victims of these monsters cannot abide or endure their lifelong shame and often take their own lives. For others, it's a very difficult and pain-filled road to becoming whole again.
Molester Johnson will hopefully meet his namesake in prison who might well show him the unwanted "tenderness" he showed his victims.
Karma baby---it's a bitch with your name attached.
March 15, 2010 at 1:52 p.m. (Suggest removal)
AHalloran33: so much wisdom in this sentence of yours, I can only repeat it: "However, as the victim of abuse myself, those little girls' healing will be better served to see and hear and get to process Jeffrey's remorse and humble pleas for amends rather than to spend their lifetimes in bitter hatred and disgust that is promoted by so many." Thank you for saying so clearly what I believe and think.
I do not know the details of any of these cases, I wasn't there and have not read the police reports, but I appreciate the DA's willingness to choose to not subject the girls and the community to a trial. 3 years sentence to state prison and a permanent label is not getting off almost scott-free, as a prior commenter wrote.
citti (anonymous profile)I do not know the details of any of these cases, I wasn't there and have not read the police reports, but I appreciate the DA's willingness to choose to not subject the girls and the community to a trial. 3 years sentence to state prison and a permanent label is not getting off almost scott-free, as a prior commenter wrote.
March 15, 2010 at 1:56 p.m. (Suggest removal)
For a person who will be a sexual abuser the rest of his life, 3 years is just a break to let things die down and let people forget about him. In 3 years most drug addicts or gang members don't change, what makes you think that a sexual predator will change? It is a sickness that cannot be cured or stopped. All that keeps people like this from not doing it again is the fear of long years in prison, where the treatmet was harsh. Even that eventually passes and they decide to risk it. Out of all criminals, the sexual predator is the least likely to change their ways.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 15, 2010 at 2:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)
oyanso, ahalloran33, citti, and others who shared similar thoughts: thank you for a more sane voice in this dialogue. No one who has any intelligence thinks child abuse is ok. Those of you like santabarbarasand and az2sb who have extreme feelings about this worry me. If, as one person said, "1 in 3 women report having been touched inappropriately before the age of 18", I'm glad they are not like santabarbarasand in dealing with it. Almost all of my female friends have had some type of very inappropriate touching or sexual behavior done upon them, of varying degrees. I'm included in that group. Yes, it can scar you but it doesn't have to debilitate you. I don't in any way diminish sexual assault or inappropriateness with that statement. But as a woman, unfortunately, it is a fact of life and I and my friends have learned to deal with it in a variety of ways, NONE OF WHICH ARE VIOLENT OR INVOLVE REVENGE. If Mr. Johnson did this terrible deed, it is not justifiable, but I do see the benefit of a lighter sentence to spare everyone going through a trial.
whatsername (anonymous profile)March 15, 2010 at 10:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Dear AZ2SB,
As and ex-convict, you must certainly be aware that sex offenders are generally subjected to extreme physical and often sexual abuse in prison. This does not benefit anyone. Punishment does not heal a community. Hatred does not heal wounds. It is not at all clear in this dialog that anger is helping you, the victims, or anyone else.
It is too late to stop the abuse that has already happened. It is not too late to support the victims in this case, or any case like it. It is not too late to reach out in your community to bring this issue out into the light and to work to prevent further abuse. It is not to late to find better ways to protect children and women. Prevention is what is needed now, as always. Prison is for when it is already too late. What about right now? There are women and children being abused all around us in the community every day. Shouldn't we be focusing on how to protect them before it is too late?
GetOverOil (anonymous profile)As and ex-convict, you must certainly be aware that sex offenders are generally subjected to extreme physical and often sexual abuse in prison. This does not benefit anyone. Punishment does not heal a community. Hatred does not heal wounds. It is not at all clear in this dialog that anger is helping you, the victims, or anyone else.
It is too late to stop the abuse that has already happened. It is not too late to support the victims in this case, or any case like it. It is not too late to reach out in your community to bring this issue out into the light and to work to prevent further abuse. It is not to late to find better ways to protect children and women. Prevention is what is needed now, as always. Prison is for when it is already too late. What about right now? There are women and children being abused all around us in the community every day. Shouldn't we be focusing on how to protect them before it is too late?
March 17, 2010 at 6:33 a.m. (Suggest removal)
Punishment is meant to be a deterrent but clearly is not working. Perpetrators continue to leave prison to commit the same crime again, and violators on the outside ignore the risk of detection and incarceration, until they in turn are found out. A never ending nightmare.
Clearly the work of protecting our daughters is essential and clearly it should begin at home. The awful truth appears to be children are most likely to be hurt by trusted close friends and relatives. Knowing this we have to start with early education. It is not easy. How do we explain to our toddlers ? What do we say ? If we say too much they could become paranoid, too little, vulnerable. Teen permissiveness is hard to confront also. It is an uphill struggle to keep vigilant and confront the power of the peers of one's own children. We did it in the 70"s and risked being hated for a while.
samuel (anonymous profile)Clearly the work of protecting our daughters is essential and clearly it should begin at home. The awful truth appears to be children are most likely to be hurt by trusted close friends and relatives. Knowing this we have to start with early education. It is not easy. How do we explain to our toddlers ? What do we say ? If we say too much they could become paranoid, too little, vulnerable. Teen permissiveness is hard to confront also. It is an uphill struggle to keep vigilant and confront the power of the peers of one's own children. We did it in the 70"s and risked being hated for a while.
March 17, 2010 at 7:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The sexual offenders have their own yard. If they end up in a regular yard and get found out, they at the very least, get a beatdown to get them out of the yard. In a sexual offender yard its a every animal to their own. Like that scumbag John Gardner, probably could defend himself pretty well because of his size. He probably victimized others. This guy Jeff will probably become a victim because of his size, so he might have to buy protection. He can run to the man, but guess what, they really don't care unless they have to. Meaning unless it involves him losing his job they won't do nothing. Believe it or not there are many sexual offenders that stop breaking the law because of the treatment they receive in prison. Then there is another portion that become better at what they do because they learn from more sadistic bastards than themselves. It works both ways in the these two worlds of prison life. The "regular" yards will have their hardcores that will teach the newer inmates what the rules are and will eventually go on to teach them criminal abilities also. As for me I was neither a sexual offender or hardcore. I decided that it wasn't the life for me when I had a kid. Then the world changed for me. Being that I do know as they say"what's up" I also know that someone like Jeffery Johnson will always be a potential victimizer for the rest of his life. I also know a break when I see one, and three years for the crime he committed is a definite break. I never saw a break like that and I didn't do the damage he did. Not that I am mad about my sentence, it was appropriate by the law and I accept that. Another thing you used to hear in prison,"if you don't like it than don't break the law."
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 17, 2010 at 12:16 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Yes, I have moments where I am outrageously angry and that is a direct result of the abuse that occured to me. Don't attack me for it, it is a very real symptom of being victimized in this way. I have had counseling, I have told my entire family, I have confronted the assualter, and at many times, I have come to terms with it and feel like I have moved on. And then I read something like this and see the sympathy that people have for the monster and wham, it brings it back up. People protected my monster so it is not hard to put two & two together is it?
When you point out the positive aspects of a person that does this type of harm to an innocent, you DO perpetuate the abuse. When I hear that neighbors accused the little girls of falsifying their story, it hurts me because I know how it makes the victim feel small and uncared for. It should be so clear cut when a child says that someone has been sexually assualting them that who they tell should believe and act. Period. However, in this case we have people coming out to publicly support this scum that did this harm and that is so disgusting and insulting.
santabarbarasand (anonymous profile)When you point out the positive aspects of a person that does this type of harm to an innocent, you DO perpetuate the abuse. When I hear that neighbors accused the little girls of falsifying their story, it hurts me because I know how it makes the victim feel small and uncared for. It should be so clear cut when a child says that someone has been sexually assualting them that who they tell should believe and act. Period. However, in this case we have people coming out to publicly support this scum that did this harm and that is so disgusting and insulting.
March 17, 2010 at 4:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)
You can't claim racism because the black chick got a long sentence for DUI, she went to trial and had lame excuses. People who do a plea bargain often get less time, that is why they make a deal instead of going to trial where they risk a much longer sentence.
El_Informador (anonymous profile)March 17, 2010 at 7:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I claim insesitivity to the victims and a potential danger to society.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 17, 2010 at 8:40 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I meant insensitivity.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 17, 2010 at 8:41 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Maybe those who stood by Jeff, were doing so because they had experienced the best of this person, as had I. Untill this last hearing, many of us who know the people involved were still hoping against hope, that the accusations were somehow false. Why not? If they were then the children were left unharmed, the people in Jeff's family were as well left unharmed. What's wrong in wishing the best scenario for such a horrific crime?
All involved in this community have done much soul searching over this. Do I still love him??? I am so God Damned Pissed at him! Who is he? What happened to him in his life to do this??????
In the end I still am questioning. Jeff's Family, and there are many, embraced the Mother of the Children after the sentencing.
There are no winners here, only victims or survivors.
So what is learned????
I hope that we find the lesson and live by it.
peekiepookie (anonymous profile)All involved in this community have done much soul searching over this. Do I still love him??? I am so God Damned Pissed at him! Who is he? What happened to him in his life to do this??????
In the end I still am questioning. Jeff's Family, and there are many, embraced the Mother of the Children after the sentencing.
There are no winners here, only victims or survivors.
So what is learned????
I hope that we find the lesson and live by it.
March 19, 2010 at 1:07 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The family of the perpetrator "embraced" the Mother of the victim? Have I missed something? Where was their Father? Shaking Johnson's and promising him prison visits? Goodness! What have we learned from this situation ? No doubt we will continue to be vigilant,watch over our girls, and pray. A man assaulted two girls, his crime was recorded, he was sentenced, and will remain a registered paedophile just like the legion before him . End of another depressing and not unfamiliar story.
samuel (anonymous profile)March 19, 2010 at 4:49 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Hate the sin and have compassion for the sinner is a long-standing principle, of Gandhi, the Dalai Lama and of religious leaders for centuries. It's also psychologically healthy to not dwell in hatred and feelings of vengeance. I spent years working through my own issues at at time when things were less well understood, believed - and publicized.
There is no indication here that this is long-standing patterns but, according to the article, acts in November, 2009. Like PeekiePookie, I, too, was hoping against probability from actual charges being filed that the charges were false. I've known Jeffrey, I like Jeffrey --- I deplore these acts. I wish him, the children and all those touched by this case healing.
It's a bit fascinating that only the Indy has publicized the plea, but with just a paragraph in the hard copy, not the inflaming salacious details here --- and only the Indy ran that long piece recently by Roger Durling, dredging up his own childhood, his sexual abuse. I noted there that there were no comments allowed, no space for comments.
citti (anonymous profile)There is no indication here that this is long-standing patterns but, according to the article, acts in November, 2009. Like PeekiePookie, I, too, was hoping against probability from actual charges being filed that the charges were false. I've known Jeffrey, I like Jeffrey --- I deplore these acts. I wish him, the children and all those touched by this case healing.
It's a bit fascinating that only the Indy has publicized the plea, but with just a paragraph in the hard copy, not the inflaming salacious details here --- and only the Indy ran that long piece recently by Roger Durling, dredging up his own childhood, his sexual abuse. I noted there that there were no comments allowed, no space for comments.
March 20, 2010 at 11:48 a.m. (Suggest removal)
People should know about this injustice and be aware that this sexual predator will be out before we know it. It will not be long before this man builds up confidences with other people and be in a situation he knows he will not be able to control himself in.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)March 21, 2010 at 3:08 p.m. (Suggest removal)
The Indy is Santa Barbara's most thorough and reliable news source. Who would have thought that the free paper would be so much better than the SB Newspress? But they are!
citti, my mom recently passed away and although it is a truth that I do not want to accept and have trouble accepting, it is a reality. Just as this guy is a pedophile... it cannot be changed, it is not our fault, but it is true and real and must be accepted.
santabarbarasand (anonymous profile)citti, my mom recently passed away and although it is a truth that I do not want to accept and have trouble accepting, it is a reality. Just as this guy is a pedophile... it cannot be changed, it is not our fault, but it is true and real and must be accepted.
March 22, 2010 at 7:09 a.m. (Suggest removal)
The comments below were generated from the story originally printed 06/09/10
http://www.independent.com/news/2010/jun/09/child-molester-gets-three-years/Comments
Independent Discussion Guidelines
What a scumbag and he will be returning back in to SB in less than two years. How is this justice? He should not be given a chance to molest anymore girls, but he is.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)June 9, 2010 at 2:25 p.m. (Suggest removal)
I do not understand this at all.
We have mandatory minimum sentencing for drug posession that is significantly harsher than this. We need to realign our sentencing laws to actually reflect community values. Right now child molesters and rapists get out sooner than drug dealers.
This is not acceptable.
cj138 (anonymous profile)We have mandatory minimum sentencing for drug posession that is significantly harsher than this. We need to realign our sentencing laws to actually reflect community values. Right now child molesters and rapists get out sooner than drug dealers.
This is not acceptable.
June 9, 2010 at 3:23 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Jeffrey Johnson should not be allowed out of prison. His apology is pathetic dribble .
The prosecutor for this case, told the Judge that Johnson's short sentence was "unfortunate". The victims were too young to testify in a trial. The same day as Johnson's sentencing, CA OK'd new Sex Bill : first offense Child Molesters go to prison FOR LIFE, NO PAROLE
.Johnson's 3 yr. sentence is unacceptable! This Sicko will be back on our streets soon.
mizchif (anonymous profile)The prosecutor for this case, told the Judge that Johnson's short sentence was "unfortunate". The victims were too young to testify in a trial. The same day as Johnson's sentencing, CA OK'd new Sex Bill : first offense Child Molesters go to prison FOR LIFE, NO PAROLE
.Johnson's 3 yr. sentence is unacceptable! This Sicko will be back on our streets soon.
June 9, 2010 at 6:33 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Okay, so where have all this predator's ardent defenders slithered off to? All you who stated so ardently that you'd "known this guy all your lives and he would never . . . blahblahblah . . ."
We told you, didn't we? If it quacks it's not an elephant.
Three years?
It should be THIRTY to LIFE! Minimum.
Add 10 years in the electric chair for this dithering molester.
I'm with each of the previous posters in my disgust over such a slap on the wrist. Pathetic. I mean really.
His victims are remanded to a life sentence.
He should be, too. Twice over!
Draxor (anonymous profile)We told you, didn't we? If it quacks it's not an elephant.
Three years?
It should be THIRTY to LIFE! Minimum.
Add 10 years in the electric chair for this dithering molester.
I'm with each of the previous posters in my disgust over such a slap on the wrist. Pathetic. I mean really.
His victims are remanded to a life sentence.
He should be, too. Twice over!
June 11, 2010 at 11:12 a.m. (Suggest removal)
I remember all those supporters, some even were trying to set up a defense fund and were asking for donations-what a crock! Anyways, it would have been decent that they admit to their bad judgement at least. They probably are putting money on this creep's books and telling the Indy and other news media not to make such a big deal out of this mans "small" indiscretion. Let them welcome him back in to their small community up in the mountains when he gets out two years from now. Sounds like "Deliverence" has come to our mountains.
AZ2SB (anonymous profile)June 11, 2010 at 12:45 p.m. (Suggest removal)
Jeffrey's supporters did slither away. Shame on them. Two innocent little girls were not believed, and then ignored. Kids don't lie about molestation, molesters do. Remember that next time Jeffrey-Loving Mountain Drive Knuckleheads.
mizchif (anonymous profile)June 11, 2010 at 1:32 p.m. (Suggest removal)
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