News|Death PenaltyUS court grants stay of execution for Robert Roberson in ‘shaken baby’ caseThe Texas Court of Criminal Appeals agreed to reopen Roberson’s habeas petition but did not approve a new trial.
A Texas court has granted a stay of execution for Robert Roberson, who was convicted of murder in 2003. This decision comes as there are ongoing debates about the reliability of “shaken baby syndrome” as a medical diagnosis.
A Texas court has granted a stay of execution for Robert Roberson, who was convicted of murder in 2003. This decision comes as there are ongoing debates about the reliability of “shaken baby syndrome” as a medical diagnosis.
The court's decision was announced just days before Roberson's execution, initially scheduled for Mon, Oct 16, 2023.
Roberson, 58, was charged with the murder of his two-year-old daughter, Nikki Michelle Curtis, in January 2002. He brought her to a hospital emergency room in an unconscious state. Roberson maintains that Nikki was ill and suffered a fall. Prosecutors asserted her injuries were consistent with “shaken baby syndrome.” However, recent medical findings suggest that symptoms traditionally attributed to this syndrome could arise from other medical conditions.
The defense has argued that Nikki had chronic pneumonia and that medications, including codeine, contributed to her death. The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals referenced a similar case overturned in 2024 as part of their rationale for pausing the execution.
Judge Bert Richardson noted the evolving nature of medical research in contrast to the finality of execution. He emphasized the importance of accuracy in the criminal justice system to uphold reliable standards.
A Texas court has granted a stay of execution for Robert Roberson, who was convicted of murder in 2003.
While the court has agreed to reopen Roberson's petition for habeas corpus, it has not committed to reevaluating his entire case. This led to a partial dissent among some judges. Judge David Schenck argued for a new trial based on new evidence that has emerged since Roberson's original sentencing.
Conversely, Judge Kevin Yeary contended that credible evidence still supports the notion that shaking a child can cause harm.
Prior Delays and Legislative Involvement
Roberson's case has faced previous delays. In October 2024, his execution was postponed following legislative actions. The Texas House Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence issued a subpoena, raising questions about the application of a 2013 law prohibiting "junk science" in court cases.
The Texas Supreme Court intervened, further delaying the execution to address these concerns.
Despite the stay, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has expressed intentions to proceed with the execution. However, individuals involved in the original trial, including lead investigator Brian Wharton, have since expressed support for Roberson's appeal.
Wharton and a juror from the trial have acknowledged the impact of new evidence, suggesting Roberson may be innocent.
As of now, Texas has executed 596 individuals since 1982, the highest number for any state.
Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.