Charges against Fredericka Wagner dismissed in Pike County
What was supposed to be a routine hearing Wednesday ahead of Fredericka Wagner's trial next month ended with a decision that was entirely unexpected.
"Your honor, the state has filed a written motion today, specifically to dismiss this case without prejudice," special prosecutor Angie Canepa said.
Pike County Common Pleas Judge Randy Deering agreed with Canepa's motion. By doing so, he made Fredericka Wagner free from criminal prosecution, at least for the time being.
"I was innocent," Wagner said after the hearing. "I am innocent."
Wagner faced two felony charges: obstructing justice and perjury. The charges stemmed from two bulletproof vests she bought on the internet.
Prosecutors believe she bought the vests before her son, Billy Wagner, his wife, Angela, and their two sons, George and Jake, allegedly murdered eight members of the Rhoden family in and around Piketon in 2016.
"I bought 'em after the crime, after the tragedy -- weeks later," Wagner said. "And we proved that."
Since the two counts were dismissed without prejudice, it's possible Wagner could be charged again. But she doubts that will happen.
"There's no reason. There's no evidence," Wagner said.
Wagner quoted the Bible, suggesting she was confident that her faith would lead to Wednesday's outcome.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart," she said. "Lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him and he will direct your path."
A prosecutor said Wagner remains under investigation and that her right to a speedy trial played a role in the motion to dismiss the charges. Had Wagner's trial started in July, as scheduled, certain evidence in the death penalty cases involving her loved ones could have surfaced, adding a layer of complication the state seemed keen to avoid.
Now, since she's no longer facing a trial, Wagner said she would like to speak to her loved ones who are in custody. Her attorney said it's not clear if the court's order will allow that to happen.
After the ruling, a prosecutor said new evidence that's favorable to the state has turned up during the ongoing investigation into Wagner. If and when that evidence will come into play remains to be seen.