Ojai Valley News Blog

Thursday, September 27, 2012
By Monica Lara

The Oak View resident who allegedly assaulted an Ojai veterinarian in February pleaded not guilty to all charges at his arraignment Thursday.

A pre-trial conference for 55-year-old Scott Doornbos is scheduled for Nov. 8. At that time, the court will set a trial date or determine if a settlement can be reached.

The upcoming holidays could cause scheduling delays since it has to work for possible jury members, witnesses and the court, according to David Russell, Ventura County deputy district attorney. Russell stood in as the prosecution at the arraignment in place of deputy district attorney Brian Weilbacher.

Neither Weilbacher nor defense attorney Ron Bamieh, who represents Doornbos, could be reached for comment.

Doornbos will be facing three felony offenses: battery with serious bodily injury, assault with force likely to cause injury and terrorist threats — a threat made willingly by someone to commit a crime that results in great bodily injury or death to another person. Multiple additional allegations could add to his sentencing if convicted, including prison eligibility.

Doornbos denied all priors and special allegations related to his case at the arraignment, as well.

Doornbos allegedly assaulted Dr. Steve Sallen, owner of the Ojai Village Veterinary Hospital on West Ojai Avenue, Feb. 23. The incident occurred after Doornbos learned his 5-year-old dog died while in the hospital’s care.