May 28, 2025

Trial Begins for Steve Lawson in Crystal Rogers Case

News Summary

The trial of Steve Lawson commenced in Bowling Green, Kentucky, where he faces conspiracy to commit murder and tampering charges linked to the 2015 disappearance of Crystal Rogers. Prosecution indicates Lawson may have concealed evidence and altered details regarding Rogers’ last known whereabouts. With significant attention on the case, evidence and testimonies will play a critical role in the jury’s deliberation, which is comprised of 15 members instructed to focus solely on courtroom proceedings. The outcome could have far-reaching implications for all involved.

Bowling Green, Kentucky

The trial of Steve Lawson began on January 4, 2024, in Bowling Green, Kentucky, as he faces charges of conspiracy to commit murder and tampering with physical evidence related to the 2015 disappearance of Crystal Rogers. The case has drawn significant public attention due to its longstanding mystery and the involvement of multiple suspects.

Crystal Rogers, a mother of five, was reported missing on July 3, 2015, when her car was found abandoned on the Bluegrass Parkway with personal belongings left inside. The prosecution contends that Lawson played a role in concealing evidence related to Rogers’ presumed death. Both sides agree that Lawson tampered with evidence but disagree on the conspiracy charge, which the defense claims lacks substantial proof linking him to the crime.

During the trial, prosecution attorney Shane Young stated that the evidence will demonstrate that Lawson assisted in covering up the circumstances of Rogers’ disappearance. Notably, a critical piece of evidence includes a phone call made by Lawson to Brooks Houck, Rogers’ ex-boyfriend, around the time she went missing. Allegations have emerged indicating that Lawson admitted to moving Rogers’ car and altering its driver’s seat to mislead investigators about who had last driven it.

In court, Sherry Ballard, the mother of Crystal Rogers, expressed her distress at being unable to contact her daughter and described the rocky relationship between Rogers and Houck. Furthermore, Detective Jon Snow testified regarding surveillance footage that allegedly placed Houck near Rogers’ car shortly before her disappearance and noted inconsistencies in Lawson’s statements over the years.

The jury for the case consists of 15 members (12 jurors and 3 alternates), comprised of 10 women and 5 men. They have been instructed to deliberate based solely on evidence presented during the trial rather than any external knowledge. The trial is being held in Warren County due to the extensive media exposure that has complicated the possibility of selecting an impartial jury in Nelson County.

Lawson’s legal representation, led by private attorneys contracted through the Department of Public Advocacy, intends to challenge the prosecution’s claims. The prosecution is supported by a team of attorneys and anticipates wrapping up its case by Thursday, followed by the defense’s arguments expected by Friday. Testimonies are set to continue on January 5, 2024.

Lawson is not the only suspect in this case, as his son, Joseph Lawson, and Brooks Houck are also facing charges related to the investigation, with their trials scheduled for June 2024. Judge Charles Simms III is presiding over the trial and has denied requests from media outlets to allow cameras in the courtroom, citing potential distractions that could impede the trial’s progress.

The outcome of this high-profile trial could have significant implications for all parties involved and shed light on the unresolved case surrounding Crystal Rogers’ disappearance. As the trial unfolds, the focus will remain on the evidence and testimonies presented in court.

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HERE Resources

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Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE BOWLING GREEN WRITER

The BOWLING GREEN STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBowlingGreen.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bowling Green, Warren County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the National Corvette Homecoming, International Festival, concerts at SKyPAC, and sports events at Beech Bend Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bowling Green Area Chamber of Commerce and the African American Museum Bowling Green Area, plus leading businesses in automotive, apparel, and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors Corvette Assembly Plant, Fruit of the Loom, and Med Center Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERELexingtonKY.com and HERELouisville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Kentucky's dynamic landscape.

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