Pediatrician guilty of drug trafficking

CINCINNATI (AP) — A southwest Ohio pediatrician convicted of sex crimes involving former patients was found guilty Thursday of drug trafficking and money laundering charges in the same case.

Dr. Mark Blankenburg, 53, of Hamilton, was found guilty of six counts and acquitted of 19 others by Common Pleas Judge Keith Spaeth of Butler County.

Prosecutors say Blankenburg gave his patients money and prescription drugs to keep quiet about the molestation.

At a trial this month, four men testified that the doctor molested or performed sex acts on them when they were teenagers. Defense attorneys said allegations against the doctor were false and that accusers extorted money and drugs from him.

But a jury convicted the doctor Oct. 16 of charges, including gross sexual imposition, corruption of a minor, pandering sexually oriented matter involving a minor, and compelling prostitution.

Blankenburg could be sentenced to more than 70 years in prison for his crimes, the prosecutor said.

Blankenburg’s twin brother, Dr. Scott Blankenburg, also has been charged and faces trial in April.