Perry County jury convicts man of first degree rape

A jury in Perry County has found a man guilty of fourth-degree rape after a three day trial, said an announcement from District Attorney Robert Turner, Jr. 

The verdict was the result of years-long proceedings as the defendant, Steven Harold Lawrence, was arrested for the crime in 2017. 

According to Turner's announcement rape in the first degree is a felony that could potentially mean life in prison or a term of not less than 10 years and up to 99 years. 

Lawrence has been ordered to surrender himself to the custody of the Perry County Sheriff’s Department on November 14. His sentencing is scheduled for Jan. 28, 2026. 

“This conviction stands as a reminder that justice, though sometimes delayed, will never be denied," said Turner. "Our office remains steadfast in pursuing justice for victims of sexual abuse — especially children — across the 4th Judicial Circuit. We will continue to fight relentlessly to ensure that every victim’s voice is heard and every offender is held accountable, no matter how long it takes.”