When was this published?

This article was first published on July 23, 2026 by FOX 44 and curated for Waco readers.

Who reported this story?

This story was reported by MG Montemayor at FOX 44.

Where can I find related coverage?

See more local coverage from Waco, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs.

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Get ready for class at Waco PD's Back to School Bash!

Summary by Waco Editorial Desk · Based on reporting by MG Montemayor, FOX 44 · July 23, 2026 · 1 min read

WACO, Texas (FOX 44) - The Waco Police Department is set to host its sixth annual Back to School Bash this weekend! We find out why this year's event is bigger and better than ever in our interview above!

Why this matters in Waco

The sentencing of former Waco priest Anthony Odiong to life in prison for multiple sexual assault charges brings a measure of closure to the community, particularly for the victims and their families. This case is a stark reminder of the need for vigilance and accountability within local institutions, including those in the faith community. As a city with a strong presence of Baylor University, a prominent Christian university, Waco places a high value on the role of faith leaders in shaping the community. The McLennan County justice system's handling of this case demonstrates its commitment to protecting vulnerable populations and holding perpetrators accountable, regardless of their position or influence. The community will likely continue to grapple with the implications of this case, and it remains to be seen how local faith leaders and institutions will respond to ensure the safety and well-being of their congregations.

About this story

Original reporting by FOX 44. Waco surfaces reporting from trusted publishers and adds local editorial context so readers can quickly understand what a story means for their community. We attribute every source, link to the original report, and follow a documented editorial standards policy. To understand how stories are selected and reviewed, read our about page.

For the complete original report, visit FOX 44. Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom.

Category: local · Published: July 23, 2026 · Source: FOX 44 · Reading time: 1 min

This preview is provided by Waco News. Full article available at .

Summary created by	Waco Editorial Desk — automated, rule-governed
Original reporting	MG Montemayor, FOX 44
Original story	Read at the source
Source published	Jul 23, 2026
AI assistance	Automated summary drawn from the source’s own published text
Prepublication human review	No — editorial rules, flagged-item review, and published samples

Get ready for class at Waco PD's Back to School Bash!

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