Laurel County man accused of shooting girlfriend

By: Phil Pendleton - Email

Updated: Mon 5:27 PM, Feb 04, 2013

LAUREL COUNTY, KY - Police have arrested a man who they say shot his girlfriend in the town of Keavy on Sunday morning.

Gena Smith was shot in her home with a .22 rifle. Her boyfriend, Richard Lawson, was arrested and charged with assault. He was also charged with wanton endangerment, since the couple's 11 year old child was nearby while the violence was taking place.

Police said that Lawson was intoxicated and got into an argument with Smith, who tried to run away. Lawson is accused of shooting her as she was trying to leave.

Lawson was in court this morning, and was expected to plead not guilty. He is currently being held on $25,000 bond, and declined a request for an interview from prison.

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