Nigerian Priest Convicted of Sexual Assault in Texas

Anthoni Odiong, a 57-year-old Nigerian-born Roman Catholic priest, was convicted by a jury in Waco, Texas, for sexually assaulting women under his spiritual care. The jury, consisting of eight women and four men, delivered their verdict after two hours of deliberation on a Friday.

Odiong was found guilty on one count of first-degree sexual assault and two counts of second-degree sexual assault. Testimonies from two women revealed that Odiong manipulated and pressured them into sexual relationships, exploiting his position as a priest.

One victim, identified as Mari Doe, testified that Odiong began a sexual relationship while providing spiritual counsel during her difficult divorce. Another victim, Jane Doe, testified that Odiong pressured her into sexual acts under the guise of spiritual guidance.

The case followed a 2024 report by The Guardian that documented allegations of sexual misconduct against Odiong during his ministry in Texas and Louisiana. Prosecutors indicated that additional evidence, including DNA linking Odiong to a child, was gathered during the investigation.

Odiong had pleaded not guilty and faced life imprisonment for the first-degree charge when sentencing begins on Monday.