Robert Roberson is scheduled to be executed in Texas, making it the nation’s first execution involving a case of shaken baby syndrome. Roberson has maintained his innocence in the death of his 2-year-old daughter, Nikki, in 2002. His execution could still be delayed if Gov. Greg Abbott grants his legal team’s request for a 30-day reprieve or if the U.S. Supreme Court intervenes. A bipartisan coalition of state lawmakers and medical experts have rallied to support Roberson, attempting to show evidence that he is innocent.
Prosecutors argued that Nikki was killed as a result of a violent shaking episode based on her diagnosis of “the triad” – a swollen and bleeding brain and retinal hemorrhaging – symptoms once believed to be evidence of shaken baby syndrome. However, the science behind shaken baby syndrome as the sole diagnosis of abuse has been reevaluated in recent years. The American Academy of Pediatrics changed the name to “abusive head trauma” to include injuries caused by mechanisms other than shaking alone. It is now recognized that other medical conditions can also cause symptoms previously associated with shaken baby syndrome.
Roberson maintains that Nikki fell out of bed and was comforted by him, but later stopped breathing. He took her to the hospital where she was declared brain dead and ultimately died. Law enforcement suspected Roberson of shaking Nikki to death, and he was arrested for capital murder. His seemingly blank reaction to Nikki’s death was attributed to autism spectrum disorder, which he was diagnosed with in 2018. However, his claims of mental lapses due to a brain injury were not addressed during the trial, and the jury was not fully informed of Nikki’s medical history.
Despite numerous appeals and efforts to have his conviction reevaluated, Roberson’s requests have been repeatedly rejected. An evidentiary hearing held in 2016 led to a rejection of a new trial, and he has been unable to halt the execution. Roberson’s lawyer and supporters, including distinguished scientists, doctors, Texas legislators, and advocacy groups, continue to fight for his innocence. There have been cases of similar convictions being overturned due to medical scrutiny and reevaluation of shaken baby syndrome, highlighting the need for a closer examination of the evidence in Roberson’s case.
The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles declined to recommend clemency to Gov. Abbott, who has the authority to commute death sentences. It remains unclear what action Abbott may take before the scheduled execution. Roberson, in an interview from prison with NBC News anchor Lester Holt, continues to proclaim his innocence and pleads for mercy. With significant support behind him, including medical experts and former law enforcement personnel, Roberson seeks a pardon and a reevaluation of the evidence that led to his conviction. His case has drawn attention to the evolving understanding of shaken baby syndrome and the implications on legal proceedings involving such diagnoses.
The imminent execution of Robert Roberson in Texas has reignited debates over shaken baby syndrome, the triad of symptoms, and medical advancements in understanding abusive head trauma. While the case has seen support from a wide range of professionals, advocates, and lawmakers, the ultimate decision lies with Gov. Abbott. Roberson’s continued assertion of his innocence, the changing medical consensus on shaken baby syndrome, and the scrutiny of his trial proceedings raise questions about the justice system’s handling of cases involving complex medical conditions. As Texas prepares for what could be a landmark execution, the case of Robert Roberson serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring justice and fairness in criminal proceedings.
