Man arrested for child cruelty, illegal use of pepper spray, and battery

OJAI, California — A man has been arrested on multiple charges, including child cruelty and illegal use of pepper spray, following a series of unprovoked attacks in Ojai, according to the Ojai Patrol Station.On July 28, 2024, at 9:15 p.m., deputies responded to a fight on the 300 block of El Roblar Avenue. An adult male victim reported being pepper sprayed by Isaiah Avalos, who fled the scene on foot and was not located at that time.On August 4, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., two female juveniles were riding their electric bikes near South Blanche Street when Avalos allegedly sprayed them with pepper spray, striking each in the arm. The females reported the incident the following day.On August 5, 2024, at 7:35 p.m., a juvenile male and female were riding a bike near Nordhoff High School when Avalos allegedly pushed them, causing them to fall and sustain minor injuries. The male victim recognized Avalos as a transient in the Ojai area.Deputies later located Avalos and arrested him on charges including willful cruelty to a child likely to produce harm, illegal use of pepper spray, vandalism, and battery. Avalos was transported to the Pre-Trial Detention Facility with bail set at $50,000.The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Sharif.