A bond hearing was held on November 26, 2024, for Anthony Odiong, a Catholic priest who is currently in custody facing three grand jury indictments for sexual assault and one pending indictment for possession of child pornography. During the hearing, prosecutors presented laboratory DNA evidence, which confirmed with >99.99% certainty that Odiong was the biological father of a child resulting from a sexual assault he committed against a known survivor.
Despite the overwhelming evidence, Odiong’s request for a bond reduction was denied, and his bond remains set at $5.5 million.
The investigation into Odiong began in March 2024 when a credible report was made regarding a sexual assault that allegedly took place in 2012. Following the initial investigation, authorities uncovered multiple additional survivors who reported similar assaults, including sexual and indecent assaults, as well as financial manipulation by Odiong.
To date, nine survivors have been identified, with two having positively identified offspring fathered by Odiong. Additional investigations are underway to confirm whether other children were fathered as a result of his assaults.
A separate investigation into potential financial crimes involving Odiong has also been initiated.
Odiong, a former priest at St. Peter’s Catholic Student Center in Waco, Texas, and St. Mary’s of the Assumption in West, Texas, served in those roles from 2007 to 2012. He also served in Luling, Louisiana, from 2015 to 2023. Authorities believe there may be other victims of Odiong's abuse who have yet to come forward.
He was arrested in Ave Maria, Florida, on July 16, 2024, after being located by the Florida Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force. His arrest was also supported by the U.S. Marshals Service. After his arrest, Odiong was extradited to McLennan County, Texas, where he is currently being held.
The Waco Police Department is continuing to investigate the case and is asking any potential survivors to come forward. Individuals with information are encouraged to contact Detective Bradley DeLange at 254-750-7609.
