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First U.S. Execution for ‘Shaken Baby’ Death Possible for Texas Inmate Robert Roberson


Robert Roberson, a man on death row in Texas for the death of his 2-year-old daughter from “shaken baby syndrome,” is urging Governor Greg Abbott to pardon him ahead of his scheduled execution on October 17. Roberson filed a clemency petition with the state, emphasizing his innocence and pointing to the support he has garnered from a bipartisan coalition, medical experts, and even the original detective in his case. Roberson’s case has been under scrutiny due to the evolving nature of the shaken baby syndrome diagnosis, with experts cautioning that the complex diagnosis requires thorough analysis and consideration of relevant context.

Roberson has maintained his innocence, attributing his seemingly emotionless reaction at the time of his daughter’s death to an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis he received in 2018. His defense lawyers argue that evidence suggests his daughter may have been suffering from undiagnosed pneumonia which caused brain swelling and hindered her ability to breathe, rather than being a victim of intentional shaking.

The case highlights the shifting science and understanding of shaken baby syndrome and abusive head trauma, with experts pointing out the need for a comprehensive assessment of medical history and context. With over 30 cases of alleged shaken baby syndrome or abusive head trauma resulting in wrongful convictions being overturned since 1992, Roberson’s case brings attention to the potential risks of relying solely on outdated medical theories in criminal cases.

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www.nbcnews.com

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