Summary
Robert Roberson is scheduled for execution in Texas on October 17, 2024, based primarily on the diagnosis of “shaken baby syndrome” (SBS) in the death of his two-year-old daughter, Nikki, in 2002. This diagnosis has faced significant scrutiny and challenges from the medical community, leading to calls for clemency and a re-evaluation of Roberson’s conviction.
The case against Roberson was built on the assertion that Nikki’s injuries were consistent with SBS, a theory that has been increasingly questioned by medical experts. New evidence suggests that Nikki had pre-existing health conditions, including pneumonia and adverse reactions to medication, which may have contributed to her death. The lead detective in the case, Brian Wharton, has publicly expressed regret for his role in Roberson’s conviction and now advocates for his innocence. A bipartisan group of Texas legislators has also urged the state Board of Pardons and Paroles to reconsider Roberson’s case, citing the evolving understanding of medical evidence surrounding SBS and the implications for wrongful convictions.
Background of the Case
In 2002, Robert Roberson took his daughter, Nikki, to the emergency room after finding her unresponsive. Following her death, medical professionals diagnosed her with SBS, leading to Roberson’s arrest and subsequent conviction. However, recent evaluations have revealed that Nikki had underlying medical issues that were not adequately considered during the trial, raising questions about the validity of the SBS diagnosis.
Medical and Scientific Developments
Research has increasingly highlighted the limitations of the SBS hypothesis. A systematic review indicated that the evidence linking the triad of symptoms associated with SBS to abusive shaking is of low quality. Furthermore, the original proponent of the SBS theory, Dr. Norman Guthkelch, has expressed concerns about its application in legal contexts, suggesting that it can lead to misdiagnosis and wrongful convictions.
Calls for Clemency and Legal Challenges
Roberson’s legal team is actively pursuing clemency, arguing that new scientific evidence warrants a re-examination of his case under Texas law. Over 30 medical experts have urged the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles to reconsider the conviction, emphasizing the need for a thorough investigation into all potential causes of Nikki’s death. The case has garnered significant public attention, with advocates pushing for justice and a halt to the execution based on controversial medical theories.
Texas set to execute man on discredited 'shaken baby syndrome' hypothesis
Oct. 8 / Abc News / Provides a comprehensive overview of Roberson's case, detailing the medical evidence against the discredited SBS theory, while emphasizing the bipartisan support for clemency, making it a crucial source for understanding the legal implications. “ Robert Roberson is set to be the first person to be executed in the U.S. based on the largely discredited "shaken baby syndrome" hypothesis unless Texas...
Man who put another on death row now says the accused is innocent. | The Excerpt
Sep. 30 / Usa Today / Highlights the personal journey of Brian Wharton, the detective behind Roberson's conviction, offering a unique insider's perspective on the case and the emotional weight of his newfound advocacy for Roberson's innocence. “ On Sunday’s episode of The Excerpt podcast: In 2002, Robert Roberson brought his very sick 2-year-old daughter Nikki to the emergency room. She died the next...
Opinion: Texas may execute a man based on flawed science. Will Abbott intervene?
Sep. 25 / Usa Today / Delves deeply into the flawed science behind shaken baby syndrome, presenting a critical analysis of its historical context and the ongoing challenges in the legal system, making it a compelling read for those interested in wrongful convictions. “ In 2003, a Texas court sentenced Robert Roberson to death after he was convicted of murdering his 2-year-old daughter, Nikki, by shaking her so forcefully...