Ojai Transient Arrested for Burglarizing Villanova Prep School

On January 24, 2026, at approximately 6:33 a.m., deputies from the Ojai Patrol Station responded to a report of a suspicious person trespassing on the grounds of Villanova Preparatory School, located in the unincorporated area of the Ojai Valley.

Upon arrival, deputies learned that an adult male had forced entry into a secured dormitory building and attempted to access a secured closet with the intent to steal property. Students and staff were alerted to the suspect’s presence, and law enforcement was immediately notified. After being confronted by school personnel, the suspect fled the property.

Based on surveillance footage and witness statements, the suspect was identified as a local transient, Houston Scott. He was located later that same morning by patrol deputies. Detectives responded to process evidence and continue the investigation, which resulted in Scott’s arrest for burglary and possession of burglary tools.

Scott was transported and booked at the Pre-Trial Detention Facility in the City of Ventura, with bail set at $100,000.

Nature of Incident: Burglary Suspect Arrested
Report Number: 26-10328
Location: Villanova Preparatory School
Date & Time: 01/24/2026 @ 0633 hours
Unit(s) Responsible: Ojai Patrol Station / Ojai Detectives
(S)uspects, (V)ictims, (P)arty, (D)ecedent; City of Residence; Age
(S) Scott Houston; Ojai; 34

Ventura County Crime Stoppers will pay up to $1,000 reward for information, which leads to the arrest and criminal complaint against the person(s) responsible for this crime.  The caller may remain anonymous.  The call is not recorded.  Call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-TIPS (8477).