A Beaverton man has been convicted of sexually assaulting three children.

Dennis Coles was found guilty on eight charges – three counts of sexual assault, three counts of sexual interference and two counts of invitation to sexual touching — in an Oshawa court on Tuesday (Feb. 6) afternoon.

The verdict followed a four-day trial in December.

“These girls received justice…They told their stories, they broke their silence,” said the mother of the first victim in an interview from the courthouse.

Coles was initially charged with sexual assault, invitation to sexual touching and sexual interference in July of 2016 following allegations from a then five-year-old girl.

Two additional victims came forward shortly thereafter and Coles was charged with five other offences during a court appearance in August of 2016.

According to court documents, the initial set of charges involve incidents that allegedly occurred between September 2014 and July of 2015, while the second is related to allegations dating from January 2012 to the end of December 2014.

In interviews prior to Tuesday’s verdict, parents of the victims said they were hopeful for justice.

“Whatever happens on Tuesday…all I can hope is my daughter grows up to be a vital part of society and continues to feel empowered. I hope her story has helped others at the same time,” said the mother of the first victim.

“The verdict at this point means nothing to my family. My daughters’ healing processes started as soon as they ended their testimonies. They already feel they have gotten justice…now, we’re working on repairing the damage and moving forward,” added the mother of the other two victims.

Both of the parents said they are extremely grateful for the community support they’ve received.

“I just want to say how much I truly appreciate everyone that has been involved and supported the three girls in their search for justice,” noted the second mother.

Coles will appear in Oshawa court for a sentencing hearing on May 9.

“His sentencing will never be long enough for what he’s done,” she added.