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Sex abuse victim family says they’re “tired of being used” for politics amid Talarico attacks
By Taylor Goldenstein at Texas Tribune
· July 17, 2026
· 1 min read
Talarico has been attacking Paxton on the campaign trail over his office’s handling of a case where a Waco man was charged with sexually abusing a young boy.
Why this matters in Waco
The life sentence handed down to Anthony Odiong is a significant outcome for the Waco community, particularly given the position of trust he held as a priest. This case may raise questions about accountability and support for victims within local institutions. As the city moves forward, it will be crucial to monitor how Baylor University and other organizations respond to allegations of misconduct, ensuring that they prioritize transparency and the well-being of those affected. The McLennan County Sheriff's Office and local law enforcement will also play a key role in maintaining public trust, as they continue to investigate and prosecute similar cases. With its strong sense of community and faith, Waco will likely be watching closely to see how its leaders address these issues and work to prevent future abuses of power. The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame, a symbol of justice and integrity, serves as a reminder of the high standards to which local leaders should strive.
About this story
Original reporting by Texas Tribune . 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 Texas Tribune . Have a tip or correction? Contact our newsroom .
Category: local ·
Published: July 17, 2026 ·
Source: Texas Tribune ·
Reading time: 1 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? Talarico has been attacking Paxton on the campaign trail over his office’s handling of a case where a Waco man was charged with sexually abusing a young boy.
When was this published? This article was first published on July 17, 2026 by Texas Tribune and curated for Waco readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Taylor Goldenstein at Texas Tribune. To learn more about how Waco selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more local coverage from Waco, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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