BARDSTOWN, Ky. — The team of attorneys representing the three men charged in Crystal Rogers’ death all believe their clients will not receive a fair trial in Nelson County.
Attorneys for Joseph Lawson filed a change of venue motion Tuesday morning, joining Brooks Houck and Steve Lawson in asking a judge to move next year's trial to another county in Kentucky.
Rogers was last seen Fourth of July weekend in 2015 on Houck's family property in Nelson County. Her car was discovered days later with her keys, phone and purse inside.
Lawson is charged with conspiracy to commit murder and tampering with physical evidence.
Why do attorneys want the trial moved?
Attorneys for both Lawsons used the motion by Brooks Houck's attorney as their reasoning for a change in venue.
According to court documents, Houck's attorneys do not believe he can receive a fair trial from jurors living in Nelson County or any county surrounding Nelson. They would like to move the trial to either Boyd County or Daviess County.
His attorneys argued that Boyd County is three hours from Nelson County and has similar demographics to Nelson County, while Daviess County is two hours from Nelson County and slightly bigger, but still an option.
The attorneys claim there is "no pattern of deep or bitter prejudice" against Houck in Boyd or Daviess County, as there is in Nelson County.
Houck's attorneys pointed to multiple reasons his ability to receive a fair trial is unattainable in Nelson County, including police searches on properties with ties to Houck which were in view of the public. They also cite numerous yard signs, billboards and bumper stickers that allude to the connection between Rogers’ disappearance and Houck.
Finally, the team of attorneys wrote during a 2023 grand jury proceeding, the Nelson County grand jurors had "almost alarming" knowledge of the case and sympathized with the victim's family.
The change of venue motion will be one of several discussed in court next week.
Here's an updated list of motions expected to be heard:
- Change of Venue - All three men are requesting the trial is moved from Nelson County.
- Charges dismissed - Steve Lawson wants his charges dropped, here's why.
- Disclosure of identity of expert witnesses - Joseph Lawson has requested the prosecutor reveal the name and testimony that will be provided by experts at trial.
Court is scheduled for March 21 at 1 p.m. in Nelson County.
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