News Summary
Steven Lawson has been convicted of tampering with evidence and conspiracy to commit murder in a four-day trial concerning the disappearance of Crystal Rogers. Following an expedited jury deliberation, a 17-year prison sentence has been recommended for Lawson, with formal sentencing set. Despite maintaining his innocence regarding Rogers’ murder, Lawson admitted to lying about his actions after her disappearance, raising concerns over his involvement. The emotional toll on the Bardstown community continues as they seek justice for the unresolved case.
Bardstown, KY – Steven Lawson was found guilty of tampering with evidence and conspiracy to commit murder following a trial that spanned four days. The jury reached their verdict in less than three hours, reflecting the decisive nature of the proceedings.
The jury has recommended a 17-year prison sentence for Lawson, with final sentencing scheduled for August 6 at 3 p.m. in Nelson Circuit Court, Bardstown. In Kentucky, tampering with physical evidence is a Class D felony, which can result in a prison term of one to five years. In contrast, conspiracy to commit murder is categorized as a Class B felony, carrying a potent penalty of 10 to 20 years in prison.
During the trial, Lawson maintained his innocence regarding involvement in the murder of Crystal Rogers, asserting that he did not assist Brooks Houck, Rogers’ boyfriend at the time, in planning her murder. However, Lawson admitted to lying about moving Rogers’ vehicle following her disappearance, citing an unwillingness to “man up” and tell the truth.
Testimonies from family members played a crucial role in the case. Lawson’s mother, Barbara Colter, conveyed uncertainty about her son’s knowledge regarding Rogers’ fate, although she suggested he might understand more than he disclosed.
The defense did not dispute that Lawson tampered with evidence when he picked up his son, Joseph Lawson, on the Bluegrass Parkway on the night Rogers vanished. Prosecutors presented evidence from phone calls made while Lawson was in custody, during which he discussed the logistics of moving Rogers’ car and the missed opportunity of contacting the police sooner.
Jury deliberations commenced after the prosecution rested its case, ultimately rejecting a defense motion for acquittal on the conspiracy charge related to murder.
Crystal Rogers was last seen on July 3, 2015, and was reported missing two days later, on July 5, after her abandoned car was discovered with her personal belongings inside. This incident has left an enduring impact on the Bardstown community, which continues to rally for justice and support for Rogers’ family in their time of grief.
As of now, Crystal Rogers remains missing, and her body has yet to be found. The ongoing investigation into her disappearance involves other suspects, including Brooks Houck, who has been charged with Rogers’ murder, and Joseph Lawson, who faces related charges of conspiracy and tampering. Notably, the trials for Houck and Joseph Lawson are scheduled to take place together in June 2025.
The community continues to seek closure and justice for Crystal Rogers, highlighting the case’s significant emotional toll on families and residents alike, as they mourn and advocate for answers in this unresolved tragedy.
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Additional Resources
- WDRB: First Conviction in Crystal Rogers Murder
- WLKY: Crystal Rogers Case Timeline
- WHAS11: Crystal Rogers Trial Day 4 Updates
- Wave3: Looking Back at Crystal Rogers Disappearance
- Fox56: Testimonies in Crystal Rogers Case
- Wikipedia: Crystal Rogers
- Google Search: Crystal Rogers Murder
- Google Scholar: Crystal Rogers
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Crystal Rogers
- Google News: Crystal Rogers Murder
