Robert Roberson, a condemned man in Texas whose execution was halted due to a legal maneuver by lawmakers, is expected to appear at a legislative hearing in Austin on Monday. The lawmakers obtained a temporary restraining order just hours before the scheduled execution, allowing Roberson to potentially challenge his conviction under a 2013 “junk science” law related to shaken baby syndrome.
Roberson, convicted in the death of his 2-year-old daughter, maintains his innocence. New understanding of shaken baby syndrome suggests other medical factors could have been involved in his daughter’s death. Lawmakers issued a subpoena for Roberson to testify, buying more time for his case. The state Supreme Court ultimately intervened, staying the execution but not specifying for how long.
The legal maneuvering to stop the execution was considered extraordinary by experts. Roberson is set to testify at the hearing on Monday, and it will be up to the attorney general’s office to seek another death warrant after that. Governor Greg Abbott may also grant a 30-day reprieve.
Although Roberson’s legal options are running out, lawmakers and advocates remain hopeful for justice. The U.S. Supreme Court declined to intervene, leaving the fate of Roberson’s execution in the hands of Texas lawmakers and legal proceedings. The case has raised questions about the use of forensic science in criminal convictions and the potential for wrongful executions.
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