Murder in Pike County: The Untold Story of a Chilling Crime

Introduction

In the tranquil hills of Pike County, Ohio, a gruesome crime shocked the nation. On the evening of April 21, 2016, eight members of the Rhoden family were brutally murdered in their homes. The slayings sent ripples through the close-knit community and sparked a massive investigation that would span years.

Timeline of Events

• April 21, 2016: Eight members of the Rhoden family are discovered dead in four separate residences.
• April 22, 2016: Authorities launch an investigation into the murders.
• November 13, 2018: George Wagner IV, Angela Wagner, Jake Wagner, and George "Billy" Wagner III are arrested and charged with the murders.
• November 20, 2018: Edward "Jake" Wagner is found dead in his jail cell.
• May 20, 2021: A jury convicts George Wagner IV and Angela Wagner of aggravated murder.

The Victims

The victims of the Pike County murders were:

• Christopher Rhoden Sr., 40
• Dana Rhoden, 37
• Christopher Rhoden Jr., 16
• Hanna Rhoden, 19
• Clarence "Frankie" Rhoden, 20
• Hannah Gilley, 20
• Kenneth Rhoden, 44
• Gary Rhoden, 38

The Investigation

The investigation into the Pike County murders was one of the largest and most complex in Ohio history. Hundreds of law enforcement officers worked on the case, and over 1,000 pieces of evidence were collected.

Investigators quickly focused on the Wagner family, who had long-standing feuds with the Rhodens. Over the course of the investigation, authorities uncovered a chilling plot involving multiple family members.

The Motive

According to prosecutors, the Wagner family carried out the murders because they believed the Rhodens had stolen marijuana from them. The Wagners planned the attack for months, using social media and text messages to communicate.

The Trial

The trial of George Wagner IV and Angela Wagner began in May 2021. The prosecution presented a vast amount of evidence, including DNA, ballistics, and witness testimony. The defense argued that the Wagners were innocent and that the prosecution's case was based on speculation and conjecture.

On May 20, 2021, the jury found George Wagner IV and Angela Wagner guilty of aggravated murder. They were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Conclusion

The Pike County murders were a heinous crime that left a lasting mark on the community. The investigation and trial revealed a chilling plot involving multiple family members and a motive rooted in greed and violence. The convictions of George Wagner IV and Angela Wagner brought justice to the victims and their families, but the scars of this tragedy will remain for years to come.

Key Statistics

• The Pike County murders were the largest mass murder in Ohio history.
• The investigation involved over 1,000 pieces of evidence.
• The trial lasted over three months.
• George Wagner IV and Angela Wagner were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Tables

Strategies

• Use social media to your advantage. The Wagners used social media to communicate and plan the murders. Law enforcement was able to use this information to track down the suspects.
• Follow the evidence. The prosecution presented a vast amount of evidence against the Wagners, including DNA, ballistics, and witness testimony. This evidence was essential in securing a conviction.
• Build a strong case. The prosecution spent years building a strong case against the Wagners. This involved interviewing witnesses, collecting evidence, and conducting scientific tests.

Tips and Tricks

• Stay vigilant. The Pike County murders show that crime can happen anywhere, anytime. It's important to be aware of your surroundings and to report any suspicious activity to law enforcement.
• Get involved in your community. One of the best ways to prevent crime is to get involved in your community. This can help you to build relationships with your neighbors and to identify potential problems.
• Speak up. If you see something, say something. If you have any information about a crime, no matter how small, please contact law enforcement.