Thomas Innerebner, shown here in a sketch by a court artist, was found guilty Friday of 13 of 17 sex-related charges. (CBC) A jury has found an Edmonton taekwondo instructor guilty of 13 of 17 sex-related charges.

Thomas Innerebner, 52, was on trial for eight counts of touching children under 14 for a sexual purpose and nine counts of sexual assault.

The jury in his trial in Edmonton Court of Queen's Bench started its deliberations on Thursday and announced a verdict late Friday morning. The jury acquitted Innerebner on four charges relating to three of the nine female complainants.

Innerebner sat beside his lawyer and stared straight ahead as the jury announced its decision.

The verdict was praised by the mothers of some of the victims outside the courthouse. They cannot be named under a court-ordered publication ban.

"Our family is elated that justice has prevailed in this case," said one mother. "We look so forward to telling our daughter that Innerebner is going to pay for the crimes that he committed against her."

"Without her being the hero that she was, justice would not have been served with this child molester," another victim's mother said.

One of the victims was as young as seven at the time of the assaults. Most took place during or after Innerebner's taekwondo classes.

Crown praises witnesses who testified

Crown prosecutor David Hill praised the young witnesses for coming forward.

"The witnesses who came forward to testify in this case are, in my books, heroes," he said.

During his trial, Innerebner denied he ever assaulted or touched any of his students inappropriately.

Innerenber's lawyer, Brian Beresh, said they are disappointed in the verdict and plan to appeal some of the convictions.

Innerebner will be back in court on Jan. 11 to set a date for sentencing. Hill told the judge he intends to ask for a prison sentence of at least four years. Beresh said he may possibly seek a conditional sentence for his client.

A judge decided Friday afternoon that Innerebner can remain free on bail until he is sentenced.