Edward, Angela Wagner Receive Prison Sentences Over Roles in Rhoden Family Murders

The dark chapter of the Wagner family’s role in the Rhoden family massacre has had a significant update, with Edward “Jake” Wagner and Angela Wagner receiving their sentences.

At a Glance

Edward “Jake” Wagner and Angela Wagner have been sentenced for their roles in the 2016 killings of the Rhoden family.
Jake Wagner received a life sentence with parole possible after 32 years.
Angela Wagner was sentenced to 30 years with credit for six years served.
The 2016 massacre resulted in the deaths of eight Rhoden family members.

Sentencing of Jake Wagner

Edward “Jake” Wagner received a life sentence with the chance of parole after 32 years for his involvement in the 2016 murders of eight members of the Rhoden family. Initially, Jake agreed to serve eight consecutive life terms without parole but received a reduction in his sentence for cooperating with authorities.

During his sentencing, Jake expressed remorse, stating that his capture was an answer to his prayers. He further disclosed, “I am sorry for what I’ve done, but I’m glad I got caught. I 100% believe it was Jesus who made me get caught to answer my prayer.”

Role of Angela Wagner

Angela Wagner, Jake’s mother, was sentenced to 30 years in prison. The judge emphasized her role, stating that she was also responsible because “she could have stopped the whole thing dead in its tracks.” Angela had already served six years, which will be credited towards her sentence.

During sentencing, emotions ran high as family members of the victims voiced their anger and resentment towards the Wagners. The courtroom heard testimonies illustrating the tragic impact of the crime.

Angela Wagner, her son Edward “Jake” and her mother Rita Newcomb appeared in Pike County Court of Common Pleas on Friday. https://t.co/K2NpuKqQ0f

— WTOL 11 (@WTOL11Toledo) January 4, 2025

The Broader Case

The Rhoden family killings were motivated by a custody dispute involving Jake’s niece. The Wagner family meticulously planned the murders, then relocated to Alaska before eventually returning to Ohio, where they were apprehended. In a previous judgment, Jake’s brother, George Wagner IV, was sentenced to serve eight consecutive life terms without the possibility of parole.

With the recent sentences, George “Billy” Wagner III, the family patriarch, remains the last Wagner to face justice. The court is moving the trial out of Pike County to ensure impartiality. The death penalty has been removed from his case, and he has pleaded not guilty to all charges.