The Trial of Crystal Rogers: Day 6

BOWLING GREEN, KY – Day 6 of the Crystal Rogers trial brought powerful testimony and a major decision from the bench as the case continues to unfold.

The day began with a cadaver dog handler who took the stand to discuss his involvement in the investigation. He testified that his dog gave a positive indication for human remains near the back of a white Buick. That same vehicle, investigators say, also contained hair found in the trunk that is similar to Crystal Rogers’.

Next, a digital forensics expert walked the jury through an extensive, minute-by-minute breakdown of Crystal’s phone activity on the night of July 3, 2015. According to his testimony, her device was manually shut down at 11:57 p.m., and remained inactive until July 6 at 10:45 a.m., when it was accessed by law enforcement.

The most consequential moment of the day came from the judge. Warren Circuit Judge Timothy Simms denied motions to acquit both Joseph Lawson and Brooks Houck, citing sufficient evidence presented by the prosecution.

Houck’s defense argued that the case lacked a body, a crime scene, and physical evidence. Key components, they say, are typically present in successful “no-body” homicide prosecutions. They also noted that other such cases have included at least a confession, a crime scene, or the discovery of a body—none of which are present in this trial.

However, the state pushed back, saying the strongest piece of evidence in the case is Houck himself—pointing out inconsistencies in his statements to law enforcement, and testimony suggesting his story from the beginning hasn’t added up.

Judge Simms explained his ruling, citing multiple factors that support the prosecution’s case:

• Brooks Houck being seen at the family farm after midnight

• Crystal’s hair found in a vehicle she was not believed to have been in

• Witness testimony that Crystal was excited about a date night that never happened

• A sudden stop in Crystal’s phone activity on the night she disappeared

• Witnesses seeing her car abandoned on the Bluegrass Parkway around 10:30 p.m.

• Multiple people saying they never encountered Brooks on July 3

The motion to acquit Lawson was also denied. The court referenced key testimony from his ex-girlfriend’s mother, who said she overheard a conversation about “$50,000 and moving a car.” Judge Simms said there was enough testimony presented to establish a possible motive.

The trial is set to resume on July 2, when the defense will begin presenting its case with opening statements.