A Roman Catholic priest in Texas has been sentenced to life in prison after being convicted of sexually assaulting members of his congregation.
Anthony Odiong, 57, was sentenced by a jury in Waco after being found guilty of first-degree sexual assault and two counts of second-degree sexual assault.
Jurors were told Odiong abused his position as a priest and spiritual adviser to exploit female parishioners over a period of years. He denied wrongdoing and did not testify during the trial.
The court heard that some victims described inappropriate sexual contact and coercive behaviour linked to his role in providing spiritual guidance. Prosecutors said he used that authority to gain trust and manipulate women.
Odiong faced a sentence ranging from five years to life in prison. He was ultimately given three life sentences to be served simultaneously. He will be eligible for parole after 30 years.
During the trial, defence lawyers argued that any relationships were consensual and took place outside his clerical duties, but the jury rejected that argument.
The case formed part of a wider investigation into allegations of misconduct during Odiong’s time serving congregations in Texas and Louisiana. Church officials had previously removed him from ministry duties following complaints.
The Guardian reported that testimony from multiple women helped support the prosecution's case, including accounts of inappropriate behaviour during pastoral meetings and spiritual counselling sessions.