Former Ojai private school teacher convicted in sex crimes case

A former Ojai Valley private school teacher was sentenced Thursday to more than six years in prison for sex crimes involving a minor student.

Paul Herder, 66, previously pleaded guilty in March to six counts involving sexual conduct with a student. The charges included luring, digital penetration of a minor and unlawful sexual intercourse, according to the Ventura County Prosecutor's Office. Herder also admitted to specific allegations that could result in harsher sentences, including taking advantage of a position of trust.

In February 2023, the former Oak Grove School student came forward as an adult with the allegations, opening an investigation by the Ventura County Sheriff's Office.