Pike County murders: Second homicide suspect pleads not guilty to charges

UPDATE @ 11:24 a.m.:

The second of two homicide suspects in the Rhoden family murders pleaded not guilty to charges in a Pike County court today.

George Wagner IV is facing 22 charges, including eight counts of aggravated murder.

His defense team requested bond, saying that George Wagner IV has no prior record and the he has been cooperative with authorities.

The prosecution argued that George Wagner IV and the other murder suspects talked about getting revenge on investigators, including Ohio Attorney General Mike DeWine. They claimed that George Wagner IV was the “most vocal in making those threats.”

Judge Randy Deering denied the request for bond.

George Wagner IV also waived his right to a speedy trial.

UPDATE @ 10:36 a.m.:

The arraignment for one of four homicide suspects in the Pike County murders is underway.

George Wagner IV was charged with aggravated murder, conspiracy, engaging in pattern of corrupt activity, tampering with evidence, unlawful possession of a dangerous ordnance, forgery, unauthorized use of property, interception of wire, oral or electronic communications, obstructing justice and aggravated burglary.

Each aggravated murder count — one for each victim — carries a death sentence specification.

Members of the Rhoden family are present for the arraignment, as well as George Wagner IV’s aunt.

INITIAL REPORT:

The second suspect in the Rhoden family homicides will appear for arraignment at Pike County Common Pleas this morning.

RELATED: Pike County murders: First homicide suspect pleads not guilty

George Wagner IV, who is one of four capital murder defendants accused of killing eight of his neighbors in 2016, will appear in front of a Pike County Judge at 10 a.m.

His brother, Edward Jacob “Jake’ Wagner, pleaded not guilty Tuesday. He faces 23 charges, including aggravated murder.

The arraignment of the brothers’ mother, Angela Wagner, will be Thursday.

Their father, George “Billy” Wagner III, will be arraigned Dec. 4.

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