Waco, TX – A bond hearing for Catholic priest Anthony Odiong, accused of serial sexual assault, was held on November 26, 2024, with significant new evidence presented by prosecuting attorneys. The evidence, which included laboratory DNA results, definitively established Odiong as the biological father of a child born as a direct result of his assault on a known survivor. The DNA analysis confirmed with a certainty of over 99.99% that Odiong fathered the child.
Despite the gravity of the evidence, Odiong’s request for a bond reduction was denied, and his bond remains set at $5.5 million. Prior to the hearing, the bond was already among the highest allowed in such cases, reflecting the severity of the charges and the evidence against him.
Odiong, who was extradited from Ave Maria, Florida, in July 2024, is facing three grand jury indictments for sexual assault, and one more potential indictment for possession of child pornography. The investigation into his activities began earlier this year after a credible report linked him to a possible sexual assault from 2012. Since then, the investigation has identified at least nine survivors of Odiong’s abuse, with DNA testing also confirming two children born as a result of his sexual misconduct. Additional potential offspring are still being investigated.
In addition to the sexual assault charges, authorities have launched a probe into potential financial crimes related to Odiong’s actions, though details of that investigation remain limited.
Authorities have continued to stress the importance of contacting law enforcement if anyone else may have been affected by Odiong’s alleged crimes. The Waco Police Department, which is handling the case, has urged potential survivors to come forward and seek support. Detective Bradley DeLange, who is leading the investigation, can be reached directly at 254-750-7609.
As the investigation progresses, the Waco Police Department is committed to ensuring justice for all survivors of Odiong’s alleged abuse. The case is ongoing, and officials are still gathering evidence, with hopes of uncovering further details and additional victims.
