Nigerian Catholic Priest Convicted of Sexual Assault in the US Faces Life in Prison

A jury in the United States has convicted a Nigerian Catholic priest, Rev. Fr. Anthony Odiong, of sexual assault and exploitation of women, a verdict that could result in life imprisonment under Texas law.

The conviction came after a trial in Waco, Texas, where jurors found the 57-year-old cleric guilty of one act of first-degree sexual assault and two counts of second-degree sexual assault against two women.

According to sources, all of the victims testified throughout the proceedings, which began with jury selection earlier this week.

The jury reached its decision after hearing evidence that prosecutors claimed established a pattern of abuse in which the priest allegedly used his religious position to exploit vulnerable women.

Under Texas law, a first-degree sexual assault conviction carries a possible life sentence, while a second-degree conviction carries jail terms ranging from two to twenty years. Sentencing is slated to begin on Monday.

The matter attracted national attention after investigations and media reports revealed charges of sexual misconduct by multiple women against the priest.

Odiong’s conviction was the latest high-profile sexual abuse case involving a Catholic priest in the United States. He is anticipated to become the second priest from St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Luling to be imprisoned for sexual abuse within two years.

Lawrence Hecker, a retired Catholic priest aged 93, was sentenced to life in prison in 2024 after pleading guilty to charges related to the kidnapping and rape of a minor at a New Orleans church in 1975.

The newest conviction is expected to heighten the ongoing scrutiny of sexual abuse claims in Catholic institutions, as well as rekindle calls for better responsibility and victim protection. This version is written in a more polished newspaper format, making it appropriate for publishing.