Sex assault charges filed against priest, more possible victims identified

Waco, Tx ( FOX 44 ) – UPDATE: Two charges of sexual assault have now been filed against a Catholic priest who formerly served in Central Texas, and more potential victims have been identified.

Anthony Odiong was arrested Tuesday in Florida, originally held on a charge of possession of child pornography. He was also a focus of an investigation into a sexual assault case involving an offense reported to have occurred in Waco in 2012. The Waco Police Department is looking for other sexual assault survivors who may have been similarly victimized.

Police report additional charges are pending.

The initial investigation led to the arrest of Odiong in Ave Maria, Florida. He was picked up by the Florida Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force. He is currently in the Collier County Jail awaiting extradition.

Multiple women have come forward to tell similar experiences as the victim who reported the initial allegation. Experiences ranged from sexual assault and indecent assault, more commonly recognized as groping, and financial abuse, with some victims experiencing various forms of manipulation.

Investigators say they believe there may be others, and wish to speak with anyone who have
had similar encounters with Anthony Odiong either in McLennan County or in other
areas of the country.

Anthony Odiong served as a Catholic priest at St. Peters Catholic Student Center in Waco, Texas, as well as St. Mary’s of the Assumption in West, Texas, from 2007 to 2012.  Investigators say they also know that Anthony Odiong served in Luling, Louisiana from around 2015 to 2023.

Investigators say they are committed to the pursuit of justice in the case, and say victims can come forward without the risk of being publicly identified. Anyone with information or who may have been a victim may speak with Detective Bradley DeLange, who will explain how confidentiality will be maintained. Detective DeLange may be reached at 254-750-7609.

Investigators emphasize that respect for a victim’s experience is their highest priority and no one will be required to go to court if they prefer not to, nor will victim’s names be made public. Investigators want to hear from victims where ever in the country they might be, and want them to be assured that they are not alone and will not have to live with the experience of the trauma alone. A Waco Police statement said they were ready to assist survivors no matter where they may be.

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