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A Catholic priest in Texas, Father Anthony Odiong, has been indicted on felony sexual assault charges following allegations from several victims of both sexual and financial abuse. He served at St. Peter Catholic Student Center located at 1415 S 9th St, Waco, TX 76706. The indictment, issued by a grand jury in McLennan County, includes two counts of second-degree sexual assault and one count of first-degree sexual assault, according to The New York Times.
Father Odiong was arrested in July 2024 while in Ave Maria, Florida, amidst an investigation into sexual assault claims. Authorities discovered he was in possession of child pornography during their inquiry, although he has not yet been indicted on that charge. According to Detective Bradley DeLange, further legal action regarding the child pornography could still occur.
The investigation into Father Odiong's actions began after police received credible information regarding a sexual assault that allegedly took place in 2012. As the probe unfolded, authorities identified at least eight women with similar allegations, detailing experiences of groping, sexual assault, and financial exploitation. Notably, one victim sought Father Odiong’s counsel regarding her marriage issues, which is significant under Texas law regarding clergy and emotional dependency.
Father Odiong served at St. Peter Catholic Student Center in Waco and St. Mary’s Church of the Assumption in West from 2007 to 2012, and later in Luling, Louisiana, until 2023. He is currently being held in McLennan County Jail on a bond set at $2.5 million. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in prison for the second-degree charges and potentially life imprisonment for the first-degree charge.
Archbishop Gregory Aymond, who oversaw the Diocese of Austin during Father Odiong's earlier tenure, and Bishop Joe S. Vásquez, the current leader, have stated their commitment to cooperating with law enforcement. The Archdiocese of New Orleans, where Father Odiong served recently, confirmed that they acted promptly upon learning of the allegations, reporting him to law enforcement and removing him from ministry.
In a prior Facebook post, Father Odiong denied the allegations, labeling them as a “false, salacious and one-sided smear campaign.” His legal representation has not yet commented on the recent indictment.
In a troubling escalation of the case, Father Anthony Odiong, the former Catholic priest indicted for sexual assault, now faces additional charges of sexual abuse. These new allegations emerged during the ongoing investigation following his arrest in Florida two months ago. A McLennan County grand jury recently returned a four-count indictment against Odiong, 56, for the sexual assault of a woman over multiple years from 2008 to 2011.
The charges are classified as first-degree felonies, carrying severe penalties due to the nature of the victim's marital status at the time of the alleged incidents. With at least eight other women coming forward to report similar abuses by Odiong while he served as a priest and spiritual adviser, the case continues to highlight the urgent need for accountability within the clergy.
Read more about the additional charges brought against Father Anthony Odiong.
Following the arrest of the Catholic priest accused of sexual abuse, we spoke with Anjali Nigam, an experienced lawyer specializing in sexual abuse cases. She shared her knowledge of the legal rights available for victims of clergy abuse, the responsibilities of institutions, and the steps individuals can take to hold negligent parties accountable. This conversation aims to provide clarity and support for those navigating these challenging circumstances.
Editor Darla Medina: Thank you for joining us, Anjali. Can you explain what legal rights victims of sexual abuse by a priest or other member of the clergy have?
Attorney Anjali Nigam: Absolutely, Darla. Victims have the right to report the abuse to law enforcement and pursue criminal charges against the perpetrator. Additionally, they can file civil lawsuits against the abuser and potentially the church or institution for negligence.
Medina: What does negligence look like in these cases?
Nigam: Negligence often involves a failure to protect vulnerable individuals. If a church knew about previous allegations and didn’t take appropriate action, they could be held liable for enabling the abuse.
Medina: What steps should victims take if they decide to come forward?
Nigam: The first step is to seek legal counsel. An experienced attorney can guide them through the reporting process and help navigate any civil claims. It's also vital for victims to prioritize their mental health and seek support.
Medina: Thank you, Anjali. Your expertise is invaluable for those affected by these serious issues.
If you or a loved one has experienced abuse, know that you are not alone. We encourage victims and their families to reach out for support. Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your options and begin the path toward healing and accountability. Your voice matters, and we are here to help.
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