La Sierra Academy Sexual Abuse Lawsuits

Compensation for Victims of Former School Counselor, Matthew Daniel Johnson

At Injury Lawyer Team, we represent survivors of institutional betrayal and hold negligent schools accountable. The La Sierra Academy sexual abuse allegations show how devastating it is when a trusted counselor misuses his position. 

While no amount of money can undo the trauma, civil lawsuits can cover therapy, pain and suffering, and long-term care. Our firm has handled many cases of child sexual exploitation, and we are committed to guiding survivors and their families with both legal advocacy and compassionate support.

Child Sexual Exploitation Crimes at La Sierra Academy

Former Riverside School Counselor Sentenced for Filming Boys Engaged in Sexual Activity

Former Riverside school counselor Matthew Daniel Johnson was arrested after law enforcement officials found he had placed a hidden camera inside a school bathroom located in La Sierra Academy. 

He admitted to law enforcement that he concealed a pen-shaped recording device in a toilet paper holder inside the restroom across the hall from his office to secretly record young boys, including victims under the age of 12 and some as young as 3 to 5 years old. 

Investigators also discovered he was possessing child sexual abuse material, including hundreds of illicit images, several videos, and files of child pornography.

In March 2020, authorities searched his home and seized electronic devices. In October 2024, Johnson pleaded guilty in the Central District of California, and by February 2025, he was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison. 

He has remained in federal custody since October 2024, and upon his eventual release will face lifetime supervised release. The U.S. Attorney’s Office also scheduled a restitution hearing to address victims’ losses.

This case stands as a disturbing example of California private school sexual exploitation.

Matthew Daniel Johnson’s Crimes at a Junior High School Bible Camp

Johnson’s crimes extended beyond the school. At a junior high school Bible camp, and later another camp in Texas, he placed devices to capture boys in private moments. One video file even showed him adjusting a recording device inside a different bathroom.

Federal officials confirmed that Johnson admitted to using cameras at multiple sites and employing minors to create illegal material. Some recordings depicted minor boys in bathrooms and showers, where he had been a chaperone of children attending the camp.

These revelations show how predators exploit trust in schools and religious settings. Johnson’s actions traumatized many, and officials confirmed his repeated efforts to secretly film boys. 

What Damages Can Victims of Sexual Assault Recover?

Victims of child predatory conduct often face lasting trauma that impacts mental health, education, and relationships. Through civil sexual abuse lawsuits against schools, survivors may recover damages for therapy, medical costs, loss of quality of life, and future care.

Courts may also award compensation for pain and suffering, and in cases of institutional negligence, punitive damages are available. Institutions with the authority to protect minors must be held accountable when they fail to act effectively to stop abuse.

How Long Do Child Sexual Abuse Victims Have to Take Legal Action?

California law offers strong protections for survivors. Under AB 452, the civil statute of limitations for childhood sexual assault claims under § 340.1 has been abolished, allowing victims to file sexual abuse lawsuits in California at any time.

For plaintiffs aged 40 or older, the law requires certificates of merit signed by both an attorney and a licensed mental health professional to confirm the case has a reasonable basis. This ensures survivors of childhood misconduct by predators can pursue justice without arbitrary deadlines.

How Injury Lawyer Team Can Help

At Injury Lawyer Team, we know the courage it takes to step forward. Our attorneys have years of experience handling survivor claims of abuse, including complex cases involving schools, churches, and youth groups. We pursue justice against both perpetrators and the institutions that failed to protect young people.

We work on a contingency fee basis, so you pay nothing unless we win compensation. We also provide a free consultation, giving you confidential guidance without obligation.

If you or a loved one has been affected by institutional negligence or child sexual exploitation, contact us today. Learn more about our work with sexual abuse lawsuits and schedule your free consultation.

All content undergoes thorough legal review by experienced attorneys, including Jonathan Rosenfeld. With 25 years of experience in personal injury law and over 100 years of combined legal expertise within our team, we ensure that every article is legally accurate, compliant, and reflects current legal standards.