Doctor sentenced to 21 years-plus in sex case

HAMILTON, Ohio (AP) — A pediatrician convicted of sex crimes involving former patients, money laundering and drug charges was sentenced Friday to 21 to 27 years in prison and ordered to pay more than $25,000 in fines.

Mark Blankenburg, 54, of Hamilton, showed no visible emotion in court. Before being sentenced, he told the judge, “For what I have done wrong, I am sorry.” He also said he planned to appeal and had no further comment.

Judge Keith Spaeth said in delivering the sentence that Blankenburg appeared to be “fixated on underage postpubescent males” and had acted on that repeatedly. Spaeth also said that Blankenburg “appeared to show absolutely no insight into the wrongfulness of his actions” and no remorse.

A jury found the doctor guilty of charges including gross sexual imposition, corruption of a minor and compelling prostitution. In a related proceeding, Spaeth later convicted Blankenburg of drug trafficking and money laundering charges.