Nigerian Priest Anthony Odiong Convicted of Sexual Assault

Anthony Odiong, a 57-year-old former Roman Catholic priest, was convicted in Texas for sexual assault involving multiple women. The jury found him guilty on one count of first-degree sexual assault and two counts of second-degree sexual assault after testimonies from eight women and four men.

The trial revealed that Odiong engaged in sexual relationships with vulnerable parishioners while serving at the St. Peter Catholic Center in Waco. Testimonies included accounts from women who described coercion and unwanted sexual advances.

Prosecutors argued that his conduct constituted sexual assault under Texas law. Odiong, who was ordained in 1993 and served in various capacities, was suspended from ministry in 2019 due to allegations involving multiple women.

The jury deliberated for two hours before reaching a verdict, and sentencing is set to begin on Monday. The case was initially made public in February 2024, with evidence showing a broader pattern of misconduct.