A priest arrested in Collier County on child pornography charges is now facing two counts of sexual assault.
Investigators in Texas allege that the Rev. Anthony Odiong used his position within the Catholic Church to manipulate and sexually assault women between 2007 and 2023.
Odiong, who was arrested at his home in the Silverwood community of Ave Maria on Tuesday, remains in custody at the Naples Jail Center.
On the day of his arrest, Odiong was seen being escorted into a police vehicle while still wearing his white robe.
Odiong has served as a priest and Catholic pastor in Waco, Texas, and Luling, Louisiana. In 2012, Waco police received reports of sexual assault by Odiong, prompting additional victims to come forward with allegations of sexual and financial abuse. Child pornography was discovered on Odiong's phone during the investigation.
The latest developments were revealed by Waco police, who stated that eight individuals have now come forward with accusations against Odiong. This number has doubled since the initial reports earlier this week.
Residents in Ave Maria expressed shock and concern over the allegations.
Ylenia, a neighbor of Odiong, said, "When I saw him coming out, I saw he was a priest. I said, what he did? And then when I knew what happened I said, oh, my. I have two daughters. They are 4 and 3 years old [...] I am so happy that they took him."
The Waco Police Department is urging any additional victims to come forward.
Det. Bradley DeLange stated, "To those survivors I’ve already spoken to, I applaud your courage in reliving your experiences. For any women and survivors who may be watching this announcement, I want you to know that we are committed to pursuing justice. You can come forward with the assurance that your identity will remain confidential [...] I may be reached directly at 254-750-7609."
Odiong is currently awaiting extradition to Texas while being held at the Naples Jail Center.