ELYRIA — Daniel Kovarbasich has been cleared of murder, but convicted of voluntary manslaughter and aggravated assault in the Jan 22. death of Duane Hurley.

Lorain County Common Pleas Judge James Burge handed down his verdict this afternoon after the defense and prosecution waived closing arguments.

Daniel, 16, could face up to 10 years in prison when he’s sentenced later this year.

Watch Daniel’s testimony:

Jack Bradley, one of Daniel’s attorneys, said the voluntary manslaughter verdict was what he hoped for.

Daniel testified earlier today that he hit Hurley with a pickle jar to avoid having sex with the older man, whom he said had molested him for months.

He also said he punched, kicked and stabbed Hurley in his North Ridgeville home.

Assistant County Prosecutor Mike Kinlin argued during the trial that Daniel, who was tried as an adult, had “ambushed” Hurley. The evidence showed, Kinlin said, that Daniel hit Hurley three times with the jar before stabbing him 55 times.

Read Friday’s Chronicle for more on this story.

Watch the reaction from Daniel Kovarbasich’s mother: