Billy Wagner's Trial Moved Due to Media Coverage

Billy Wagner's trial for the 2016 Pike County massacre will be moved out of Pike County due to extensive media coverage that could bias potential jurors. Visiting Judge Jonathan Hein granted the defense's request, stressing the need for a fair jury, noting that the intense publicity surrounding the case makes impartiality unlikely. Wagner, the last of the Wagner family members facing trial, is accused of participating in the execution-style murders of eight members of the Rhoden and Gilley families. The location for the new trial venue is yet to be determined, and proceedings will continue in Pike County until then. Additionally, Judge Hein indicated he might suspend the death penalty for Wagner unless an agreement is reached between prosecutors and defense attorneys, complicating the prosecution's case. Wagner remains incarcerated at the Pickaway County Jail and is pleading not guilty to all charges, with his trial set to begin on January 6.