Robert Roberson, who was scheduled to be executed in Texas for a “shaken baby” death of his 2-year-old daughter in 2002, had his execution temporarily halted by a judge’s injunction. The state lawmakers issued a subpoena for Roberson to testify next week about his case, leading to a legal showdown with the state’s Attorney General appealing the order to the highest criminal court. An appeal to the U.S. Supreme Court to stay the execution was denied. Roberson has maintained his innocence, with support from a bipartisan coalition of state lawmakers, medical experts, and a retired lead detective who is now advocating for his release.
Prosecutors argued that Nikki’s death was caused by shaken baby syndrome, but the science behind this diagnosis has been questioned in recent years. Roberson has attributed his seemingly blank reaction to his daughter’s death to autism spectrum disorder, with his defense lawyers unable to present a medical expert to testify about his claims. The jury was also not informed about Nikki’s frequent hospital visits and pre-existing illnesses.
Despite facing multiple appeals, Roberson’s bids for a new trial have been rejected, and prosecutors continue to insist that he is guilty of murdering Nikki. Roberson’s case has drawn significant support from scientists, doctors, Texas legislators, and advocates for parental rights. A petition with over 116,000 signatures asking for a stop to the execution has been delivered to Governor Greg Abbott, who has the authority to commute death sentences. The decision on Roberson’s fate remains pending.
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