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John, Robert Roberson has spent over 20 years on death row for a crime that never occurred. He was a loving father caring for his chronically ill 2-year-old daughter, Nikki, who tragically passed away from undiagnosed pneumonia after a short fall from her bed. His legal team filed for clemency from Texas’ Board of Pardons and Paroles.
Robert could be the first person executed in the United States based on the now debunked “shaken baby” hypothesis unless the Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles recommends and Gov. Greg Abbott grants clemency.
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The CCA ruled, without explanation, that Robert’s appeal and Motion for Stay of Execution did not meet procedural requirements. This is despite new medical and scientific evidence showing that Nikki died of severe viral and bacterial pneumonia that progressed to sepsis and then septic shock — there was no homicide. This evidence came from three experts from a range of medical specialties, including lung pathology, medical toxicology and emergency room medicine, and pediatric radiology.
Additionally, the “shaken baby” hypothesis — a controversial theory that was used to convict Robert — has been debunked by evidence-based science. At least 32 parents and caregivers, convicted like Robert using the discredited "shaken baby" hypothesis, have since been exonerated.
That’s why eminent scientists, doctors, faith leaders, innocence groups, former federal judges, best-selling novelist John Grisham, and significantly, the lead detective who testified for the prosecution are all calling for Robert’s execution to be stopped.
The court has failed to deliver the justice that Robert deserves. But we still have 30 days to prevent Texas from making a tragic, irreversible mistake — so we must all take a stand right here, right now. Will you please sign our petition to join us in calling on the state of Texas to stop the Oct. 17 execution of Robert Roberson?
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