PIKE COUNTY, Ohio (WDTN) – Edward “Jake” Wagner, 26, appeared for his arraignment regarding the 2016 homicide of eight Rhoden family members in southern Ohio’s Pike County.
Wagner faces a 23 count indictment that includes eight counts of aggravated murder. His attorneys entered not guilty pleas for all 23 counts and did not ask for bond. Wagner also waived his right to a speedy trial. The judge ordered Wagner to be held without bond.
Authorities have suggested a custody dispute over his daughter was a possible motive for the 2016 shootings of seven adults and a teenage boy from the Rhoden family.
Wagner, his parents and his brother are charged with aggravated murder and other counts. An attorney who has represented them has said they will be vindicated.
Arraignments are scheduled for 27-year-old George Wagner on Wednesday, 48-year-old Angela Wagner on Thursday, and 47-year-old George “Billy” Wagner III on Dec. 4.
Grab the FREE WDTN News App for iPhone or Android. Stay up to date with all the local news, weather and sports as well as live newscasts and events as they happen.
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for all the latest news, weather and sports.
