Police seek victims in serial sex assault investigation

Waco, Tx (FOX44) – The Waco Police Department is looking for possible additional victims in a serial sexual assault investigation involving a Catholic priest,

Waco police spokesperson Cierra Shipley said that in March of this year, credible information was reported to the Waco Police Department regarding a sexual assault that occurred in 2012. The individual who allegedly committed this sexual assault is a Catholic priest by the name of Father Anthony Odiong. During the subsequent investigation, a case of possession of child
pornography was uncovered, which led to the arrest of Anthony Odiong on July 16,
2024 in Ave Maria, Florida, by the Florida Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force. He
is currently in the Collier County Jail awaiting extradition. Shipley said the arrest was made possible by work of the U.S. Marshals Service.

During the sexual assault investigation, the possibility of other victims was determined . Multiple women have come forward to tell similar experiences as the victim who reported the initial allegation. Experiences ranged from sexual assault and indecent assault, more commonly recognized as groping, and financial abuse, with some victims experiencing various forms of manipulation. 

Investigators say they believe there may be others, and wish to speak with anyone who have
had similar encounters with Anthony Odiong within McLennan County , and in fact other
areas of the country.  

Anthony Odiong served as a Catholic priest at St. Peters Catholic Student Center in Waco, Texas, as well as St. Mary’s of the Assumption in West, Texas, from 2007 to 2012.  Investigators say they also know that Anthony Odiong served in Luling, Louisiana, from around 2015 to 2023.

Investigators say they are committed to the pursuit of justice in the case and say victims can come forward without the risk of being publicly identified. Anyone with information or who may have been a victim may speak with Detective Bradley DeLange who will explain how confidentiality will be maintained. Detective DeLange may be reached at 254-750-7609.

Investigators emphasize that respect for a victim’s experience is their highest priority and no one will be required to go to court if they prefer not to, nor will victim’s names be made public. Investigators want to hear from victims where ever in the country they might be and want them to be assured that they are not alone and will not have to live with the experience of the trauma alone. A Waco Police statement said they were ready to assist survivors no matter where they may be.

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