News Summary
Steve Lawson has been found guilty of conspiracy to murder and tampering with evidence in connection with the disappearance of Crystal Rogers in Bardstown, Kentucky. The jury recommended a 17-year sentence for conspiracy and five additional years for tampering, both to be served concurrently. The verdict marks a significant development in a case that has puzzled the community since Rogers’ disappearance in 2015. Lawson’s trial revealed inconsistencies in his alibi and evidence of deleted calls related to the case. He will be sentenced in August 2025.
Bardstown, Kentucky –
Steve Lawson was found guilty of conspiracy to murder and tampering with physical evidence in the high-profile case surrounding the disappearance of Crystal Rogers, a mother of five who vanished in July 2015 from Bardstown, Kentucky. The decision was reached by a Warren County jury on May 30, 2025, after approximately two hours of deliberation.
The jury recommended a 17-year sentence for the conspiracy charge and an additional five years for tampering with evidence, with both sentences to be served concurrently. Lawson is set to be sentenced on August 6, 2025.
Trial Developments
Throughout the trial, Lawson maintained that his involvement in the case was limited to moving Rogers’ vehicle at the request of her boyfriend, Brooks Houck. However, inconsistencies arose when investigators contradicting his alibi revealed that his cell phone data showed his presence at a property for four hours during the night of her disappearance on July 3-4, 2015. This prompted multiple searches by the FBI in that area.
Lawson’s defense was further complicated by expert testimony that highlighted deleted calls made from his phone around the time Rogers went missing, including a brief conversation with Houck. During the proceedings, Lawson acknowledged that he had lied during the investigation, claiming that his motive was to protect his son, not Houck.
Other Defendants and Future Trials
Steve Lawson is one of three individuals charged in connection to Crystal Rogers’ case. His son, Joseph Lawson, faces accusations related to driving Rogers’ car after her disappearance. Brooks Houck, identified as the principal suspect in her murder, is also facing charges. The trials for both Joseph Lawson and Brooks Houck are scheduled to begin on June 24, 2025.
Community Reaction
The community of Bardstown has actively participated in seeking justice for Crystal Rogers, with signs and messages of support for her and her family prominently displayed throughout the town. Following the verdict, residents expressed mixed feelings, recognizing that while the decision brings some degree of closure, they continue to hope that further investigations will lead to greater clarity regarding Rogers’ disappearance.
Background Context
Crystal Rogers was reported missing on July 5, 2015. Despite extensive searches and investigations, her body has never been found, leaving her family and the community in a state of uncertainty. The case has garnered significant media attention over the years due to its complexities and the prolonged efforts of law enforcement and community members to resolve it. The recent verdict against Steve Lawson marks a significant development in a case that has remained unsolved for nearly a decade.
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HERE Resources
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Trial Commences for Alleged Conspiracy in Crystal Rogers Case
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Trial Begins for Steve Lawson in Crystal Rogers Case
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