![Rev. Fr. Anthony Odiong, a US-based Nigerian Louisiana Catholic priest, was arrested in Florida on Tuesday for possessing child pornography, according to law authorities. The suspect is reportedly accused of many other cases of sexual assault. The Waco, Texas, Police Department announced in a Facebook post on Tuesday that officers detained Father Anthony Odiong in Ave Maria, Florida, with assistance from the United States Marshals Service. Waco police announced in March that they had received "credible information" about a sexual assault allegedly committed by Odiong in Texas in 2012. “During the subsequent investigation, a case of possession of child pornography was uncovered,” the police said. The priest was apprehended in Florida by the Caribbean Regional Fugitive Task Force. The Waco Police Department said that he will be extradited to Texas. Odiong had previously served in the Archdiocese of New Orleans before being removed as priest in December of last year due to controversy over homilies in which he claimed, among other things, that the Catholic Church was being taken over by "the gays." At the time, the priest was also accused of abusive behaviour; a Louisiana lady claimed in U.S. bankruptcy court that Odiong had committed both financial and sexual abuse against her. Prior to joining the New Orleans Archdiocese, Odiong served in at least two Texas parishes. On Tuesday, Waco police stated that during their sexual assault investigation, "the presence of other survivors was revealed." “Multiple women have come forward to tell similar experiences as the sexual assault survivor who reported the initial allegation,” the police department said. “Survivors’ experiences ranged from sexual assault and indecent assault, more commonly recognised as groping, and financial abuse, with some survivors experiencing every element of Anthony Odiong’s manipulation.” The police said they “believe there may be more survivors, and we wish to speak with anyone who [has] had similar encounters” with the priest. The Archdiocese of New Orleans issued a brief news release on Tuesday noting Odiong's arrest in Florida. The archdiocese “encourages anyone with any information to contact law enforcement,” the release said.](https://chronicle.ng/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/ezgif-6-4730550ede-300x200.jpg "Odiong: US-based Nigerian Catholic priest convicted over sexual assault")
In a thrilling finale to the FIFA Women’s World Cup, Spain secured a historic victory by defeating England 1-0 in a riveting match that will be etched in football history forever. The anticipation was palpable as both teams, displaying exceptional skill and determination, took the field under the bright lights of the stadium.
From the opening whistle, Spain showcased their prowess, weaving intricate passes and maintaining possession with remarkable finesse. England, though, was not to be underestimated, mounting fierce counterattacks that tested the Spanish defence. The energy in the stadium was electric, with fans from all corners of the globe united by their passion for the beautiful game.
As the game progressed, it was evident that both sides were evenly matched, with goalkeepers from both teams making incredible saves to keep the score level. Tensions ran high as the clock ticked down, and the anticipation grew with every minute that passed. Supporters held their breath, knowing that a single moment of brilliance could tip the scales.
The breakthrough finally came in the 29th minute, as Spanish captain Olga Carmona unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box, sending the ball soaring into the top corner past goalkeeper Mary Earps in the first half after England’s Lucy Bronze lost possession in midfield.
The stadium erupted in cheers as Spain took the lead, and Carmona’s teammates surrounded her in celebration.
Undeterred, England redoubled their efforts, launching wave after wave of attacks in a bid to equalise. The Spanish defence held firm, with goalkeeper Cata Coll making a series of breathtaking saves to keep her team in the lead. The tension was palpable as England’s players pushed harder, driven by the desire to bring the cup home.
The final whistle blew, and the Spanish players embraced one another in joyous celebration, tears of happiness streaming down their faces. They had done it—Spain had triumphed over England to win their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup. The players were overcome with emotion as they lifted the coveted trophy, a symbol of their hard work, dedication, and unyielding spirit.
England’s wait to win their first Women’s World Cup title goes on following their defeat by Spain in the final on a heartbreaking evening in Sydney.
The Lionesses, looking to become the first England senior side since the men’s team in 1966 to win the World Cup, were outplayed by a Spanish side full of flair and creativity.
England manager Sarina Wiegman, who has now lost two successive World Cup finals, introduced Lauren James and Chloe Kelly at halftime, but Spain maintained control despite the Lionesses’ best efforts.
Goalkeeper Earps made several stunning saves, including one from the penalty spot to deny Jenni Hermoso after Barcelona midfielder Keira Walsh had been penalized for handball following a lengthy video assistant referee review.
But it was one step too far for the European champions, who lost just their second match in two years under Wiegman.
Spain are crowned champions for the first time despite going into the tournament under a cloud of controversy following a dispute between players and the Spanish football federation.
Fans in the stadium and around the world rejoiced in the historic victory, celebrating the triumph of women’s football and the incredible journey that had led Spain to this unforgettable moment. The images of jubilant Spanish players lifting the trophy would forever be etched in the memories of football enthusiasts, a testament to the power of teamwork, determination, and the universal love for the beautiful game.
