News Summary

Steven Lawson is set to stand trial for his alleged involvement in the disappearance of Crystal Rogers, missing since 2015. Charges include complicity to commit murder and tampering with evidence. The trial, held at the Warren County Justice Center, aims to secure an impartial jury amid significant media attention. Lawson claims he was not involved despite his links to the investigation. Other suspects, including Brooks Houck, are expected to stand trial soon after. The case remains a point of concern for the community as they seek justice for Rogers.

Bowling Green, Kentucky

Steven Lawson is set to go to trial on May 27 in connection with the disappearance of Crystal Rogers, who has been missing since July 3, 2015. Lawson faces serious charges, including complicity to commit murder and tampering with evidence.

Lawson is one of three suspects linked to Rogers’ case. The primary suspect, Brooks Houck, the former boyfriend of Rogers, has also been charged with complicity to commit murder. Additionally, Joseph Lawson, Steven’s son, is accused of driving Rogers’ car the night she vanished and later abandoning it on the Bluegrass Parkway.

Evidence has revealed that Steven Lawson picked up his son, Joseph, on the night of Rogers’ disappearance, but he maintains that he had no involvement in her death. Law enforcement first became interested in Lawson shortly after Rogers went missing due to a late-night phone call he made to Houck. Prosecutors have asserted that this call served as a message about moving Rogers’ vehicle.

Witness statements indicate that Houck was looking for someone to “get rid of” Rogers prior to her disappearance, adding further complexity to the ongoing investigation.

Trial Logistics and Precautions

The upcoming trial will be held at the Warren County Justice Center, a decision made to ensure an unbiased jury due to the significant media attention the case has attracted. In an effort to maintain courtroom decorum, Judge Charles Simms III has issued strict rules regarding media coverage, disallowing any cameras or recording devices. Attendance will be limited to individuals physically present, and journalists will only be able to report on breaks during the trial.

Additional Trials

Following Steven Lawson’s trial, Brooks Houck and Joseph Lawson are scheduled to be tried together later in June. Both will face similar charges related to their roles in the case.

Possible Penalties

If convicted, Steven Lawson may face significant prison time, with potential sentences of 10-20 years for conspiracy to commit murder and 1-5 years for tampering with physical evidence.

Background of the Case

Crystal Rogers has remained missing for several years, and her family continues to seek justice in hopes of uncovering the truth behind her disappearance. The case has drawn attention not only due to its mysterious circumstances but also because of the connections among the suspects involved.

As the trial date approaches, the community remains hopeful for resolution while grappling with the ongoing uncertainty surrounding Rogers’ fate.

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HERE Resources

Additional Resources

• WDRB: Crystal Rogers murder case brings circus-like atmosphere
• LEX18: Trial for suspect in Crystal Rogers case
• WHAS11: Insights into Crystal Rogers Case
• WDRB: First trial in Crystal Rogers case set to begin
• WBKO: Trial dates finalized in Crystal Rogers case
• Wikipedia: Crystal Rogers
• Google Search: Crystal Rogers case
• Google Scholar: Crystal Rogers trial
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Criminal justice system
• Google News: Crystal Rogers trial

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.