A man in Texas, Robert Roberson, is facing execution on Thursday for the death of his 2-year-old daughter in 2002. The case involves a diagnosis of “shaken baby syndrome” which has been re-evaluated in recent years, leading to questions about the conviction. Roberson has maintained his innocence throughout the legal process and has support from a bipartisan group of lawmakers, medical experts, and a retired detective who has become an advocate for his release.
Despite attempts to halt the execution, including a request for clemency to the governor and appeals to the courts, Roberson’s execution is still scheduled to proceed. The case has drawn attention to issues surrounding shaken baby syndrome, with new medical research challenging traditional beliefs about the syndrome’s symptoms.
Roberson’s defense has highlighted his autism spectrum disorder diagnosis and medical issues his daughter faced prior to her death, including repeated hospital visits and a high fever. Prosecutors continue to maintain his guilt, arguing that the evidence presented in court has already been litigated and rejected.
The case has sparked significant support from scientists, doctors, legislators, and advocates for parental rights and people with autism. A petition with over 116,000 signatures was delivered to the governor’s office urging him to stop Roberson’s execution. The outcome remains uncertain as the scheduled execution draws near.
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