Justice in Question: The Robert Roberson Case

A Case Built on Shaky Ground

Robert Roberson, a man with a troubled past, is set to face the death penalty for the murder of his 2-year-old daughter, Nikki Curtis. The case, which has garnered national attention, is built on shaky ground, with prosecutors accusing Roberson of sexually abusing his daughter despite a lack of evidence.

A Trial Marred by Irregularities

The trial was marred by irregularities, including:

• The introduction of a highly prejudicial allegation that was later dropped
• Missing evidence favorable to the defense
• A lead detective who now believes Roberson is innocent

Roberson, a divorced father with a history of minor property crimes, was convicted in 2003 and sentenced to death. He has spent over 22 years on death row, with his execution date set for October 16. Despite numerous attempts to spare his life, including interventions from Texas lawmakers and the courts, Roberson's fate remains uncertain.

The Controversial Science of "Shaken Baby Syndrome"

The case against Roberson is based on the outdated science of "shaken baby syndrome," a medical determination used to explain internal head trauma in small children. However, the defense argues that Nikki's death was the result of:

• Chronic breathing problems
• A serious lung infection
• Prescribed medication
• An accidental fall

They claim that the jury never got to hear this alternative explanation, which could have produced reasonable doubt.

Issues of Small-Town Justice

The trial was also plagued by issues of small-town justice, with the defense alleging that the close-knit community of lawyers and judges in Anderson County, Texas, prejudged Roberson before any meaningful investigation had occurred. The defense has raised questions about the impartiality of the trial judge, who threatened Roberson's mother with contempt and jail time for expressing her belief in her son's innocence.

A Divided Community and a Lasting Impact

The case has divided the Texas Legislature and the small rural community, with some calling for Roberson's release and others supporting his execution. The outcome of this case could have a lasting impact on the death penalty in Texas and across the U.S., as public support for this irreversible punishment continues to diminish.