Texas priest indicted on felony sexual assault charges

Anthony Odiong, a 55-year-old priest, has been indicted on three felony sexual assault charges in McLennan County, Texas. The charges include two counts of second-degree sexual assault and one count of first-degree sexual assault, with the latter carrying a potential life sentence due to the nature of the alleged victim's relationship with him. The allegations stem from incidents involving at least eight women he counseled, with claims of sexual coercion and abuse surfacing after a report by the Guardian. The investigation revealed that Odiong positioned himself as a spiritual adviser to vulnerable women, exploiting their trust during difficult times. One victim reported that he pressured her into allowing her husband to engage in sexual acts against her wishes, while another case involved direct sexual intercourse. Additionally, police discovered digital child abuse imagery in his possession, raising further concerns about his conduct. Odiong was arrested in Florida after a lengthy investigation that began when a woman reported an assault dating back to 2012. The police noted that the number of alleged victims had grown, leading to the removal of statutes of limitation for filing charges. His bail was set high due to concerns about his financial resources and potential flight risk, as he had access to significant funds and multiple passports. Despite previous allegations against him, Odiong continued to work within the church until December 2022. The archdiocese of New Orleans has faced scrutiny for its handling of clergy abuse claims, with ongoing legal settlements highlighting the systemic issues within the church regarding sexual abuse cases.