A Nigerian-born Catholic priest, Reverend Father Anthony Odiong, has been sentenced to life imprisonment in Waco, Texas, following his conviction on multiple counts of sexual assault involving women under his spiritual care.
The 57-year-old cleric, who previously served in dioceses across Texas and Louisiana, was found guilty on 29 May 2026 of one count of first-degree felony sexual assault and two counts of second-degree felony sexual assault.
Prosecutors told the court that Odiong abused his position as a religious leader to exploit vulnerable women who sought counselling, prayer, and emotional support from him. According to the prosecution, he used his clerical authority to manipulate congregants into sexual encounters during periods of personal distress and spiritual vulnerability.
Testimonies presented during the trial included accounts from multiple women who described being taken advantage of while seeking pastoral care. The SNAP Network also reported that evidence submitted in court included DNA linking Odiong to the fathering of a child with a former congregant, further reinforcing the allegations.
Under Texas law, it is a criminal offence for clergy members to engage in sexual conduct with individuals under their spiritual guidance, reflecting the recognised power imbalance inherent in such relationships.
Following deliberations lasting about two hours, a jury comprising eight women and four men returned a unanimous guilty verdict on all charges, according to KCEN-TV.
The court subsequently sentenced Odiong to life imprisonment for the first-degree felony charge, with concurrent 20-year sentences for the additional counts, alongside fines totalling $30,000. He will not be eligible for parole for at least 30 years.
Court records and reporting indicate that concerns about Odiong’s conduct predated his arrest. In 2019, the Diocese of Austin reportedly suspended him over allegations involving inappropriate behaviour with several women, though the suspension was not publicly disclosed.
Despite this disciplinary action, he continued his ministry in other locations, including serving as pastor of St. Anthony of Padua Church in Luling, Louisiana, until further complaints led to his removal in 2023.
He was later arrested in July 2024 in Florida on charges that included possession of child pornography uncovered during the wider investigation into sexual misconduct allegations. He was extradited to Texas and remained in custody until his trial and sentencing.
The case has raised broader questions about institutional oversight and the handling of early allegations within religious organisations, particularly regarding how disciplinary actions were managed and communicated.
