A former Saskatoon massage therapist has been convicted of multiple sexual assaults against female clients following a jury trial at the Court of King's Bench.
Verdict Reached After Jury Deliberations
Kenneth Braun, 69, was found guilty on Thursday of five counts of sexual assault that occurred between 2010 and 2021. The jury reached its decision around 1 p.m. after beginning deliberations on Wednesday afternoon. However, the jury acquitted Braun of one additional count of sexual assault that had been brought against him.
Trial Details and Publication Ban
The trial began on November 3 and featured evidence that cannot be reported due to a comprehensive, court-ordered publication ban. The Crown prosecutor stated this ban protects the integrity of future court proceedings and prevents historical information from potentially tainting jury pools in related matters.
Braun was originally charged with six counts of sexual assault involving six female massage therapy clients. His arrest occurred in June 2022, leading to the recent trial proceedings.
Sentencing Timeline and Conditions
Justice Krista Zerr presided over the case and decided against taking Braun into custody while awaiting sentencing. The case has been adjourned until January 14 to select a date for the sentencing hearing, where Braun will learn his punishment for the five convictions.
The convictions represent a significant outcome for the victims who came forward about assaults that occurred over an eleven-year period while seeking professional massage therapy services in Saskatoon.
