2nd man charged in Crystal Rogers case requests lower bond

BARDSTOWN, Ky. (WTVQ) — Another man charged in connection to the death of Crystal Rogers is asking a judge to lower his $500,000 bond, according to new court documents.

On Thursday, Joseph Lawson requested the “excessive and oppressive” bond be reduced to $50,000, according to ABC affiliate WHAS. They argued Lawson is unable to afford his bail due to his socio-economic status.

His attorneys said that if his bond were reduced and posted, Joseph would comply with any additional conditions set forth by the court, including GPS monitoring via home incarceration.

Joseph’s attorneys argued that he’s not a danger to the community or himself because he’s paraplegic and unable to voluntarily move the lower portion of his body. His movements are also limited to a wheelchair, which they said, makes him less of a flight risk.

This is the first time we’re learning about Joseph’s physical condition. He appeared from a hospital bed for his first court appearance days after his arrest.

Brooks Houck, Rogers’ ex-boyfriend also charged in connection to her death, asked a judge to lower his bond in early October. His request was denied.

Houck’s bond remains at $10 million.

Joseph’s father, Steve Lawson, is also charged in the case.

Rogers went missing over the Fourth of July weekend in 2015. She has been presumed dead for years.

Joseph remains in custody at the Grayson County Detention Center while Steven is being held in the Nelson County Correctional Center. Steven was moved back to Kentucky from an Indiana jail on Nov. 19.

Houck was moved to the Oldham County Detention Center on Dec. 13.