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State set to execute Texan who denies killing daughter.
In 2003 Texas court, Robert Roberson was convicted of killing his daughter. He maintains his innocence, claiming prosecutors relied on junk science for conviction.
Published July 3, 2024 at 11:42am by Ines Chomnalez
Texas Sets Execution Date for Man Convicted Under 'Shaken Baby Syndrome' Science, Now Disproved
A Texas judge has set an execution date for Robert Roberson, despite his ongoing appeals and evidence that 'shaken baby syndrome' science has been discredited. Roberson's legal team, including the Innocence Project, argues that his conviction is based on flawed medical evidence and that he is innocent.
The Case
In 2003, Robert Roberson was convicted of killing his 2-year-old daughter, Nikki, and sentenced to death. The conviction hinged on the now-discredited 'shaken baby syndrome' diagnosis. Roberson and his legal team maintain that Nikki died from natural causes linked to her chronic illness.
Discredited Science
"Mr. Roberson languishes on death row because Texas courts have ignored advancements in science and compelling new medical evidence [...] that proves his innocence."
- Innocence Project, July 1, 2023, News Release
The Innocence Project, a legal nonprofit defending Roberson, argues that advances in science and new medical evidence prove Roberson's innocence. They contend that the original trial ignored Nikki's medical history and presented flawed evidence of shaken baby symptoms, which are now understood differently.
Appeals and Support
Roberson has filed multiple appeals since his conviction, including a successful motion in 2016 that granted a stay of execution. Despite this, an appeals court denied relief in January 2023, and the Supreme Court declined to consider the case. The Innocence Project, prominent figures, and community members have spoken out against his treatment, with a petition gaining nearly 13,000 signatures.
Execution Date Set
On Monday, a judge set Robert Roberson's execution date for October 17, 2023. Roberson's legal team continues to fight for his acquittal, with a motion pending consideration from the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals.
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