OH - Pike Co - 8 in Rhoden Family Murdered - 4 Wagner Family Members Arrested #89

[Caylee Advocate]

 

[Chris_p_bacon]

There was more evidence against George than the co—defendant’s testimony.

George is heavily all over in the LE secret recordings incriminating himself. No way he had no clue about the plan. Sat by and let it happen at least.

It is beyond a reasonable doubt that he was privy to the family murder plans.

Conveniently in bed at midnight he said in Montana. On the stand he says he was in bed at 10:00pm with headphones on so did not hear anything but also says his room faces the front door and he could see people come and go. His story changes.

2 Cents

Yes. To me it was beyond a reasonable doubt that he was privy to the murder plans. In ohio, there is a legal concept of "complicity". Complicity is not exactly the same as conspiracy. It means, if you know about a crime ahead of time and provide support or otherwise assist in that crime you can be convicted as if you actually committed the crime. Prior to the murders, George made several purchases on his "Cabella's Credit Card". These were not small, low value purchases. These were large purchases of items needed to pull off this crime. People seem to forget that. So he knew about it ahead of time. He made these purchases. Helped modify the truck. He was complicit in these murders. In closing arguments the Prosecution spoke about this concept of complicity. It was also in the Judge's instruction to the Jury. George was convicted by all members of the jury on all counts against him. He was complicit in these murders.

 

[Covert Operative]

So is everything going to be decided June 12th, all the arguments laid out and the time, location AND the DP charges decided/ruled on 30-60 after the hearing?? This is the MOST ridiculous case, as far as getting it to trial, I think I've ever seen. Almost 10 years of baloney just to get to trial!!? Is Hein going to be THE judge presiding at trial?

Whichever side loses the appeal, might appeal to the Supreme Court.

 

[Betty P]

Yes. To me it was beyond a reasonable doubt that he was privy to the murder plans. In ohio, there is a legal concept of "complicity". Complicity is not exactly the same as conspiracy. It means, if you know about a crime ahead of time and provide support or otherwise assist in that crime you can be convicted as if you actually committed the crime. Prior to the murders, George made several purchases on his "Cabella's Credit Card". These were not small, low value purchases. These were large purchases of items needed to pull off this crime. People seem to forget that. So he knew about it ahead of time. He made these purchases. Helped modify the truck. He was complicit in these murders. In closing arguments the Prosecution spoke about this concept of complicity. It was also in the Judge's instruction to the Jury. George was convicted by all members of the jury on all counts against him. He was complicit in these murders.

Yes, absolutely. The same applies to Billy, his purchase of the murder truck and the modification of it.

Prosecution probably plans to use those same arguments in his case.

 

[pittsburghgirl]

I'm in a mood today. Every time I think of this case, I think all of the Wagners should never be allowed out of prison, ever. Eight murders! They wiped out a whole family. Rant over.

 

[rescuemom]

So is everything going to be decided June 12th, all the arguments laid out and the time, location AND the DP charges decided/ruled on 30-60 after the hearing?? This is the MOST ridiculous case, as far as getting it to trial, I think I've ever seen. Almost 10 years of baloney just to get to trial!!? Is Hein going to be THE judge presiding at trial?

well it looks like we can agree on THIS case!! No one can say we are not passionate about our positions, can they??

 

[Niner]

Looks like tomorrow's hearing has been cancelled,

Docket Information
Date Docket Text
4/25/2025 OHIO VICTIMS' RIGHTS REQUEST FORM FOR B.R. FILED
***NOT A PUBLIC RECORD***

04/25/2025 OHIO VICTIMS' RIGHTS REQUEST FORM FOR J.M. FILED
***NOT A PUBLIC RECORD***

04/25/2025 OHIO VICTIMS' RIGHTS REQUEST FORM FOR B.M. FILED
***NOT A PUBLIC RECORD***

04/25/2025 OHIO VICTIMS' RIGHTS REQUEST FORM FOR D.W. FILED
***NOT A PUBLIC RECORD***

04/28/2025 """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Judge: JUNK, ROBERT
Event: PRE-TRIAL
Date: 06/27/2025 Time: 10:00 AM

04/28/2025 COSTS FOR NOTICES MAILED

04/28/2025 """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Judge: JUNK, ROBERT
Event: PRE-TRIAL
Date: 07/25/2025 Time: 10:00 AM

04/28/2025 """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Judge: JUNK, ROBERT
Event: PRE-TRIAL
Date: 08/22/2025 Time: 10:00 AM

04/28/2025 COSTS FOR NOTICES MAILED

04/28/2025 COSTS FOR NOTICES MAILED

04/29/2025 WARRANT FOR REMOVAL FROM PICKAWAY COUNTY JAIL ON JUNE 27, 2025 AT 10:00AM

04/29/2025 WARRANT FOR REMOVAL FROM PICKAWAY COUNTY JAIL ON JULY 25, 2025 AT 10:00AM

04/29/2025 WARRANT FOR REMOVAL FROM PICKAWAY COUNTY JAIL ON AUGUST 22, 2025 AT 10:00AM


Events
Date/Time Type Judge Result
05/30/2025 10:00 AM PRE-TRIAL JUNK, ROBERT CANCELLED

06/27/2025 10:00 AM PRE-TRIAL JUNK, ROBERT

07/25/2025 10:00 AM PRE-TRIAL JUNK, ROBERT

08/22/2025 10:00 AM PRE-TRIAL JUNK, ROBERT

link: https://cpcourt.pikecounty.oh.gov/e...FMV0H*E-gmOrL1akuTGvBh9Mh5RgEFwmrsgGcgaOC9Qiw

 

[Covert Operative]

Looks like tomorrow's hearing has been cancelled,

Docket Information
Date Docket Text
4/25/2025 OHIO VICTIMS' RIGHTS REQUEST FORM FOR B.R. FILED
***NOT A PUBLIC RECORD***

04/25/2025 OHIO VICTIMS' RIGHTS REQUEST FORM FOR J.M. FILED
***NOT A PUBLIC RECORD***

04/25/2025 OHIO VICTIMS' RIGHTS REQUEST FORM FOR B.M. FILED
***NOT A PUBLIC RECORD***

04/25/2025 OHIO VICTIMS' RIGHTS REQUEST FORM FOR D.W. FILED
***NOT A PUBLIC RECORD***

04/28/2025 """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Judge: JUNK, ROBERT
Event: PRE-TRIAL
Date: 06/27/2025 Time: 10:00 AM

04/28/2025 COSTS FOR NOTICES MAILED

04/28/2025 """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Judge: JUNK, ROBERT
Event: PRE-TRIAL
Date: 07/25/2025 Time: 10:00 AM

04/28/2025 """""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""""
Judge: JUNK, ROBERT
Event: PRE-TRIAL
Date: 08/22/2025 Time: 10:00 AM

04/28/2025 COSTS FOR NOTICES MAILED

04/28/2025 COSTS FOR NOTICES MAILED

04/29/2025 WARRANT FOR REMOVAL FROM PICKAWAY COUNTY JAIL ON JUNE 27, 2025 AT 10:00AM

04/29/2025 WARRANT FOR REMOVAL FROM PICKAWAY COUNTY JAIL ON JULY 25, 2025 AT 10:00AM

04/29/2025 WARRANT FOR REMOVAL FROM PICKAWAY COUNTY JAIL ON AUGUST 22, 2025 AT 10:00AM


Events
Date/Time Type Judge Result
05/30/2025 10:00 AM PRE-TRIAL JUNK, ROBERT CANCELLED

06/27/2025 10:00 AM PRE-TRIAL JUNK, ROBERT

07/25/2025 10:00 AM PRE-TRIAL JUNK, ROBERT

08/22/2025 10:00 AM PRE-TRIAL JUNK, ROBERT

link: https://cpcourt.pikecounty.oh.gov/e...FMV0H*E-gmOrL1akuTGvBh9Mh5RgEFwmrsgGcgaOC9Qiw

Thanks. Probably nothing to talk about except Billy's hearing aid. I did figure the judge would want to announce his venue change decision in person though, so he could create drama.

 

[Covert Operative]

Canepa filed an appeal with the Supreme Court in regard to Jake's sentencing. She had previously filed with the court of appeals.

Pike County Massacre: State appeals killer’s sentence to Ohio Supreme Court

This is the latest in a flurry of filings by the state appealing Judge Hein’s decisions or seeking to have him removed

www.fox19.com

 

[Betty P]

Canepa filed an appeal with the Supreme Court in regard to Jake's sentencing. She had previously filed with the court of appeals.

Pike County Massacre: State appeals killer’s sentence to Ohio Supreme Court

This is the latest in a flurry of filings by the state appealing Judge Hein’s decisions or seeking to have him removed

www.fox19.com

Ohio's court system is really broken. Not all, but most. Many appointees and nominees at the higher levels of the system are barely qualified. Some often have no courtroom experience at all.

The terrible handling of these trials and sentencing is a strong example of how bad the system is these days. Frankly, I wouldn't be surprised if any or all of the killers end up walking free. It's terrifying and a horrible example of how corrupt this state has become. JMO My sympathies to the victims families and to the citizens who have to live in these corrupt communities.

ETA: I realize some who visit here think this miscarriage of justice is good. You're wrong. No one should be free to murder innocent families with impunity, regardless of their influence and connections in the community. JMO

ETA2: I also think that Prosecutor Canepa believes Judge Hein plans to NOT require Jake or Angela to testify in Billy's trial, despite their having signed plea agreements to do so. That's why she's taking this all the way to the Ohio Supreme Court.

That said, I still think Billy Wagner will be found guilty for his part in murdering members of the Rhoden family and helping plan and cover up the crimes. Appeals will likely continue, possibly resulting in the Wagners eventually being set free. We can only hope that doesn't happen.

 

[Puzzles8]

Good Summary of recent events.

"Prosecutors in Ohio are pushing for a tougher sentence for Edward “Jake” Wagner"
.....
"The state’s appeal comes after a judge’s unexpected decision to grant Wagner the possibility of parole, prompting outrage from victims’ families and renewed scrutiny of one of Ohio’s most complex murder cases."
.....
"The state has now appealed the sentence, arguing it undermines the original plea agreement and fails to deliver justice for the victims. Prosecutors have also sought to remove Hein from the case, accusing him of bias and citing his controversial rulings, including the decision to sentence Wagner before the trial of his father, George “Billy” Wagner III, the last family member facing charges."
.....
Special Prosecutor Angela Canepa has clashed repeatedly with Hein, accusing him of undermining the case. In December 2024, prosecutors filed requests with the Ohio Supreme Court to disqualify Hein, but both were denied. Canepa argued that Wagner’s reduced sentence and the timing of the hearings could jeopardize the prosecution’s case against Billy Wagner, as Jake and Angela’s plea deals hinged on their testimony in future trials."

State appeals Jake Wagner sentencing, wants harsher time and judge off case

WAVERLY, Ohio — Prosecutors in Ohio are pushing for a tougher sentence for Edward “Jake” Wagner, who admitted to his role in the 2016 Pike County massacre that claimed the lives of eight members of…

sciotovalleyguardian.com

JMO

 

[Covert Operative]

Good Summary of recent events.

"Prosecutors in Ohio are pushing for a tougher sentence for Edward “Jake” Wagner"
.....
"The state’s appeal comes after a judge’s unexpected decision to grant Wagner the possibility of parole, prompting outrage from victims’ families and renewed scrutiny of one of Ohio’s most complex murder cases."
.....
"The state has now appealed the sentence, arguing it undermines the original plea agreement and fails to deliver justice for the victims. Prosecutors have also sought to remove Hein from the case, accusing him of bias and citing his controversial rulings, including the decision to sentence Wagner before the trial of his father, George “Billy” Wagner III, the last family member facing charges."
.....
Special Prosecutor Angela Canepa has clashed repeatedly with Hein, accusing him of undermining the case. In December 2024, prosecutors filed requests with the Ohio Supreme Court to disqualify Hein, but both were denied. Canepa argued that Wagner’s reduced sentence and the timing of the hearings could jeopardize the prosecution’s case against Billy Wagner, as Jake and Angela’s plea deals hinged on their testimony in future trials."

State appeals Jake Wagner sentencing, wants harsher time and judge off case

WAVERLY, Ohio — Prosecutors in Ohio are pushing for a tougher sentence for Edward “Jake” Wagner, who admitted to his role in the 2016 Pike County massacre that claimed the lives of eight members of…

sciotovalleyguardian.com

JMO

I can think of several other things that may end up in the Supreme Court, there may not be a trial for Billy even in 2026 if so. I am pretty sure the Supreme Court is not very speedy. I think it took them more than a year to rule on the autopsy release. I could remember that wrong.

 

[Niner]

Thursday, June 12th:
*Oral Arguments Hearing [Appeal] (@ 10am ET) – OH – Pike County 8 people dead: Christopher Rhoden, Sr. (40), his ex-wife, Dana Manley Rhoden (37), their three children, Clarence “Frankie” Rhoden (20), Christopher Jr. (16), Hanna Mae (19); Frankie’s fiancée, Hannah Hazel Gilley (20), Christopher Rhoden Sr.’s brother, Kenneth Rhoden (44), & a cousin, Gary Rhoden (37). Hanna Rhoden’s baby girl (5 days old), another baby (6 mos.) and a young child (3) were unharmed. (April 21-22, 2016, Pebbles) - *George Washington “Billy” Wagner III (47/now 54) (name changed [11/5/86] from William Emmanuel) [Jake’s father] indicted (11/12/18), arrested (11/13/18), charged (11/15/18) & arraigned (12/4/18) with 8 counts of aggravated murder, [Dismissed 11/27/24: (plus gun specifications on each)], (plus gun specifications on each), 1 count of 1st degree conspiracy, 4 counts of 1st degree aggravated burglary, 1 count of 5th degree unlawful possession of dangerous ordnance, 3 counts of 3rd degree evidence tampering, 1 count of 5th degree forgery, 1 count of 5th degree unauthorized use of computer or telecommunications, 1 count of 4th degree interception of wire, oral or electronic communication, 1 count of 4th degree obstructing justice & 1 count of 1st degree engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity. Plead not guilty. Held without bond. DA will seek the DP. Was permanently moved (9/13/24) to the Pickaway County Jail in Circleville. Pike County (Butler County jail/move [9/13/24] to Pickaway County Jail)
Appeal case #2024CA000931 State of Ohio vs. Wagner, III, George Washington. Case Status: Open File Date 12/2/24. Action: Court of Appeals.
Court of Appeals from 1/10/25 to 3/10/25 Docket reference post #821 here:
https://www.websleuths.com/forums/t...ner-family-members-arrested-89.732618/page-42
3/17/25 Docket update: Entry-Denying application for reconsideration filed. Copies filed & mailed to Counsel of record & 4 copies to Court of Appeals.
5/2/25 Docket update: Original Appeal filed & copies of trial case set to Court of Appeals. 5/5/25 Docket update: Magistrate's Order-This matter is scheduled for argument on 6/12/25 @ 10am in the Jackson County Courthouse. Copies filed & emailed to Counsel & 4 mailed to Court of Appeals.. 5/19/25 Docket update: Motion, entry & certification for appointed counsel fees.
Appeal Case #2024CA000932 State of Ohio vs. Wagner, III, George Washington. Court of Appeals. Case Status: Open on 12/9/24. Action: Court of Appeals. Case dismissed on 2/14/25.
Court of Appeals from 1/3/25 to 1/17/25 reference post #821 here:
https://www.websleuths.com/forums/t...ner-family-members-arrested-89.732618/page-42
2/14/25 Docket update: Decision & Judgment entry--It is ordered that the Appeal be dismissed & that appellee recover of appellant the costs herein taxed. Copies filed emailed to Counsel & copy returned to Court of Appeals. Check issued by Morgan Galle.
Trial was set to begin on 1/6/25 was postponed & no further dates.
Presiding Judge Jonathan P. Hein replaced (on 5/29/24) Judge R. Alan Corbin [health reasons]. Prosecutor Angela R. Canepa & defense attorneys Mark C. Collins & Thomas F, Hayes.
Case & court information from *12/4/18 thru 3/26/25 reference post #821 here:
https://www.websleuths.com/forums/t...ner-family-members-arrested-89.732618/page-42
4/7/25 Docket update: Victim & victim representative T.R.'s motion for designation as victim & request for Judicial notice as victim representative filed by attorney Morgan Galle. 4/9/25 Docket update: Motion, entry & certification for appointed counsel fees. Next pretrial & motions hearing on 4/25/25 @ 10am.
4/25/25 Update: Defense waives Billy's appearance & will continue with the hearing without him. Oral arguments heard from Morgan Galle re victims' rights. Now on to arguments of family's motions regarding change of venues-they also filed to officially make "TR" a victim of the crime. No decision by Judge Hein made. Next pretrial/evidentiary hearing on 5/30/25 @ 10am. Oral arguments regarding the appeal of Hein's decision to remove the death penalty in this case are scheduled for 6/12/25, with a decision expected within 30-60 days. Also added to the docket on 4/28/25: pretrial hearings on 6/27/25, 7/25/25 & 8/22/25 all at 10am. [See posts 825 & 826, page 42, thread #89 for recap of hearing on 4/25/25].
4/25/25 Docket updates: Ohio Victims' Rights request form B.R., J.M., B.M., & D.W. filed. Not a public record. 4/28/25 Docket updates: Pretrial hearing on 5/30/25 has been cancelled. Next pretrial hearing on 6/27/25 @ 10am. Costs for Notices mailed. 4/29/25 Docket updates: Warrant for removal from Pickaway County jail on 6/27, 7/25 & 8/22/25.
6/2/25 Update: Special Prosecutor Angela Canepa filed an appeal Monday in the Ohio Supreme Court after an unsuccessful attempt in an appeals court. Her court filings contend visiting Judge Jonathan Hein abused his discretion by setting aside Wagner’s original plea deal. See link on post #889, page 45, thread #89.

 

[arielilane]

The appellate judges said they'd rule on the appeal at a later date.

Prosecution appeals removal of death penalty ahead of Billy Wagner trial

An appeals court will hear arguments on why the prosecution says the death penalty should not have been taken off the table in Billy Wagner's trial.

local12.com

Death Sentence Arguments​

An appeals court will hear arguments on why the prosecution says the death penalty should not have been taken off the table in Billy Wagner's upcoming trial. https://tinyurl.com/29amdpj3

 

[Covert Operative]

s discretion by setting aside Wagner’s original plea deal. See link on post #889, page 45, thread #89.

The appellate judges said they'd rule on the appeal at a later date.

Prosecution appeals removal of death penalty ahead of Billy Wagner trial

An appeals court will hear arguments on why the prosecution says the death penalty should not have been taken off the table in Billy Wagner's trial.

local12.com

Death Sentence Arguments​

An appeals court will hear arguments on why the prosecution says the death penalty should not have been taken off the table in Billy Wagner's upcoming trial. https://tinyurl.com/29amdpj3

I think the State has a good chance of winning but I surely have been wrong before. If they do win it the defense could appeal to Supreme Court? or could the judge give notice to attorneys that he is going to dismiss, correct his errors, allow their arguments and then dismiss again? Then the State may take it to Supreme Court? I am not very familiar how things work on appeals.

 

[Niner]

Docket update:

Date Docket Text
06/25/2025 JUDGMENT ENTRY CANCELLING PROCEEDINGS SCHEDULED FOR JUNE 27, 2025 FILED

Events
Date Type Event Judge Result
06/27/2025 10:00 AM PRE-TRIAL JUNK, ROBERT CANCELLED

07/25/2025 10:00 AM PRE-TRIAL JUNK, ROBERT

08/22/2025 10:00 AM PRE-TRIAL JUNK, ROBERT

link: https://cpcourt.pikecounty.oh.gov/e...-mBC8smpyyrMMyKxwlSh0N*BlpzBaGPNpoEuMW6glfY-Q

 

[Betty P]

Docket update:

Date Docket Text
06/25/2025 JUDGMENT ENTRY CANCELLING PROCEEDINGS SCHEDULED FOR JUNE 27, 2025 FILED

Events
Date Type Event Judge Result
06/27/2025 10:00 AM PRE-TRIAL JUNK, ROBERT CANCELLED

07/25/2025 10:00 AM PRE-TRIAL JUNK, ROBERT

08/22/2025 10:00 AM PRE-TRIAL JUNK, ROBERT

link: https://cpcourt.pikecounty.oh.gov/e...-mBC8smpyyrMMyKxwlSh0N*BlpzBaGPNpoEuMW6glfY-Q

It seems like defense and the courts are trying to run out the clock long enough for the public to forget about this tragic case. JMO

A recent article stated legal experts believe that even if Jake and Angela don’t testify in Billy’s trial, the transcripts of their previous testimony would still be admitted. I hope that’s allowed to happen.

Prosecution appeals removal of death penalty ahead of Billy Wagner trial

An appeals court will hear arguments on why the prosecution says the death penalty should not have been taken off the table in Billy Wagner's trial.

cwcolumbus.com

At some point, Pike County is going to run out of money to pay for this trial. JMO

 

[courier_1]

It's a disgrace

 

[Puzzles8]

State appeals Jake Wagner sentencing, wants harsher time and judge off case

WAVERLY, Ohio — Prosecutors in Ohio are pushing for a tougher sentence for Edward “Jake” Wagner, who admitted to his role in the 2016 Pike County massacre that claimed the lives of eight members of…

sciotovalleyguardian.com

State appeals sentence for Jake Wagner after he admitted to role in Pike County massacre

The state of Ohio is looking for a harsher sentence for Jake Wagner, the Pike County man who admitted to his role in one of the state’s most complex murder cases.

www.wlwt.com

JMO

 

[sunshineray]

It seems like defense and the courts are trying to run out the clock long enough for the public to forget about this tragic case. JMO

A recent article stated legal experts believe that even if Jake and Angela don’t testify in Billy’s trial, the transcripts of their previous testimony would still be admitted. I hope that’s allowed to happen.

Prosecution appeals removal of death penalty ahead of Billy Wagner trial

An appeals court will hear arguments on why the prosecution says the death penalty should not have been taken off the table in Billy Wagner's trial.

cwcolumbus.com

At some point, Pike County is going to run out of money to pay for this trial. JMO

Who ARE BW's lawyers anyway and how have they been able to delay for so long? I still can't believe Junk is the judge on BW's trial. Is being the DA/prosecutor that originally investigated and charged the family to prosecuting, along with AC, AW, E"J"W an GWIV...how can Junk now be a judge at BW's trial?