BARDSTOWN, Ky. — Attorneys for one of the three men charged in connection to the 2015 disappearance of Crystal Rogers was in court Monday as he prepares to go to trial. Steven Lawson’s hearing centered on the defense’s motions, requesting DNA testing on two hairs found in Rogers’ car and to postpone Lawson’s May 27 trial start date.

Prosecutor Shane Young argued testing the hair is not relevant to the case, not believing it matters who the hairs belong to.

“Hairs are readily shed, as the doctor testified. As Mr. Reed testified, they’re readily shed. Static electricity, they come in on shoes, the simple fact that someone else’s DNA is in the vehicle is not exculpatory,” Young said.

According to Young, the two hairs were found in the driver’s side of Rogers’ car, were not similar to Rogers’ hair or similar to Nick Houck’s hair. Nick is the brother of Brooks Houck, who is charged with Rogers’ murder. Young stated the hair was several inches long.

“The fact that it was not done previously does not now deprive Mr. Lawson of the ability to now make the request under these purely legal arguments,” said Zach Buckler, Lawson’s attorney.

Steven Lawson and his son Joseph are charged with conspiracy to commit murder and tampering with physical evidence. Steven reportedly told police that he moved Rogers’ car around the time she reportedly disappeared. Steven will be tried on his own, Joseph Lawson and Brooks Houck will be tried together.

“Judge, the victims in this case have a right to go to trial without an unreasonable delay, and that’s a constitutional right, and I think when you balance that. That right against the speculation and fishing expedition this is going to lead to, they have to triumph in this,” Young argued.

Ultimately, Judge Charles Simms did not make a ruling on what happens next with the case, but is expected to have a decision made within the next two days.

At this time Steven Lawson will stand trial May 27 in Bowling Green. Brooks Houck and Joseph Lawson’s trial will be in June 2025.