WAVERLY, Ohio — The sentencing of several Wagner family members, key figures in one of Ohio’s most notorious murder cases, has been rescheduled to January 3. The new date comes after previous delays due to legal filings and court proceedings.
New Sentencing Schedule
- Jake Wagner, Angela Wagner, and Rita Newcomb are set to appear in court at 10 a.m. on January 3.
- Billy Wagner, the patriarch of the Wagner family, will have a hearing at 1 p.m. the same day.
Background and Key Developments
The Wagner family stands accused of orchestrating the 2016 killings of eight members of the Rhoden family in Pike County, a massacre that shocked the nation. The victims were executed in their homes, sparking an investigation that culminated in the Wagner family’s arrests in 2018.
Jake Wagner, who has pleaded guilty to 18 charges, including aggravated murder, admitted to killing five members of the Rhoden family. His plea deal, finalized in 2021, removed the possibility of the death penalty in exchange for his cooperation. He faces up to eight consecutive life sentences.
Angela Wagner, Jake’s mother, accepted a plea deal resulting in the dismissal of eight aggravated murder charges. She is expected to receive a 30-year sentence for conspiracy and other charges.
Rita Newcomb, Angela’s mother, was charged with forgery and obstructing justice for her role in the aftermath of the murders. Her sentencing is also scheduled for January 3.
Billy Wagner Awaits Trial
Billy Wagner, Jake’s father, has pleaded not guilty and is scheduled for trial starting January 6. However, uncertainty remains about the trial date. His charges include aggravated murder, conspiracy, tampering with evidence, and forgery. His trial was relocated out of Pike County due to intense public and media scrutiny. Prosecutors have confirmed they will not seek the death penalty against Billy Wagner.
Judge’s Role and Legal Challenges
The legal proceedings have been marked by numerous filings and disputes. A recent request to disqualify Judge Jonathan Hein, who presides over the case, was denied by the Ohio Supreme Court on December 23. Judge Hein has overseen the scheduling of sentencing and trial dates, including the announcement that the death penalty will not be pursued against any Wagner family members.
The Rhoden Family Victims
The victims of the 2016 massacre include:
- Christopher Rhoden Sr.
- Dana Rhoden
- Clarence “Frankie” Rhoden
- Christopher Rhoden Jr.
- Hanna May Rhoden
- Hannah Gilley (Dana’s niece)
- Gary Rhoden (Christopher Sr.’s brother)
- Kenneth Rhoden (Christopher Sr.’s cousin)
The brutal murders allegedly stemmed from a custody dispute between Jake Wagner and Hanna May Rhoden, the mother of his child.
Community Awaits Resolution
With Billy Wagner’s trial looming, uncertainty surrounds whether Jake and Angela Wagner will testify. Their testimony was a condition of their plea deals and could play a crucial role in Billy’s case.
The Rhoden family’s massacre remains one of Ohio’s most complex investigations, involving years of evidence gathering and witness testimonies. As sentencing and trials proceed, the community and victims’ families continue to seek justice and closure.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.