A jury in Cincinnati returned guilty verdicts against Anthony Kirkland on all counts of aggravated rape and murder in the deaths of two girls.
Although Kirkland had also confessed to the murders of Esme Kenney, 13, and Sharee Crawford, 14; he had to be found guilty by a jury to face the death penalty.
During closing arguments Friday, prosecutors described Kirkland as a "monster" representing "pure evil" and told jurors that evidence including the defendant's own words to police absolutely prove he is guilty and should die.
Kirkland's defense presented no evidence and gave a brief closing. Lawyers were trying to spare Kirkland from a possible death penalty. They again told jurors they were sure the trial would go to the sentencing phase and that he admitted killing the girls.
Kirkland is charged with aggravated murder, gross abuse of a corpse and other counts.
He pleaded guilty to the slayings of Mary Jo Newton and Rolison, both adults. He faces a life prison sentences for their deaths.
The sentencing phase of the trial will begin next week.
