Cincinnati- from www.local12.com – Jurors reached a verdict in the sex and drugs trial of a Butler County doctor. The panel found pediatrician Mark Blankenburg guilty on 16 sex charges in the case.

Blankenburg molested young patients at his practice. He faced dozens of charges including gross sexual imposition, corruption of a minor and compelling prostitution. The jury has been deliberating those counts since yesterday. Blankenburg stood before the verdict was delivered, but sat down midway through the process.

A judge will determine Mark Blankenburg’s guilt on 25 remaining counts that include bribery and drug trafficking. He is accused of giving his patients money and drugs to keep quiet about the alleged molestation. Defense attorneys have said the sex allegations are false and that accusers extorted money and drugs.

Blankenburg’s twin brother, also a pediatrician, faces trial on 22 similar charges. His trial is set to begin in April of 2010.