The scheduled execution of Robert Roberson in Texas for the shaken baby death of his 2-year-old daughter, meant to be the first in the nation, has been halted due to a legal battle. A temporary injunction was granted to allow Roberson to testify at a hearing next week by state lawmakers issuing a subpoena. The Office of the Attorney General plans to appeal this order to the highest criminal court in the state.
The U.S. Supreme Court has denied a bid to stay the execution, leaving it up to the governor to decide. A bipartisan coalition of lawmakers, medical experts, and a former detective have rallied to support Roberson, who maintains his innocence in his daughter’s death. Medical advancements have questioned the validity of shaken baby syndrome as the sole evidence of abuse. Roberson’s autism diagnosis and his daughter’s pre-existing illnesses were not fully considered at his trial.
Despite support from scientists, doctors, and advocacy groups, including petitions and pleas to Governor Greg Abbott, the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles declined to recommend clemency to Roberson. His case has highlighted issues of junk science, disease processes, and actual innocence in the criminal justice system. Roberson’s execution is now in limbo, awaiting the governor’s decision on a 30-day reprieve.
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