Robert Roberson's Clemency Denied

Robert Roberson Has Spent Over 20 Years on Death Row
Advocates Ask Governor Greg Abbott for a 30-Day Reprieve
Legislators and Human Rights Defenders Request a Case Review

The case of Robert Roberson has shaken the legal community and human rights advocates, as his execution is scheduled for October 17, 2024.

This is despite overwhelming evidence of his innocence. Roberson was convicted over 20 years ago for the death of his daughter, Nikki.

This conviction was based on the discredited «shaken baby syndrome» theory, according to the Innocence Project.

However, new scientific and medical reports indicate that Nikki, who suffered from a chronic illness, died of undiagnosed pneumonia and not from abuse.

Robert Roberson’s Clemency Denied

#RobertRoberson is an innocent father with autism who has spent over 20 years on death row in Texas for a crime that never occurred. Even the former lead detective in his case is speaking out in support of his innocence. Find out how you can help: https://t.co/L5ABcjNppX pic.twitter.com/5jslkeQrUS

— Innocence Project (@innocence) October 4, 2024

The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles denied the clemency request.

Now, the only remaining possibility is for Governor Greg Abbott to issue a 30-day reprieve to review the case.

YOU MIGHT ALSO BE INTERESTED: Robert Roberson faces execution for disputed medical diagnosis

Among Roberson’s supporters are 86 Texas legislators.

In addition to the legislators, more than 116,000 people have signed a petition calling for the halt of Roberson’s execution, who is also autistic.

According to the statement from Robert Roberson’s attorney, autism was a factor that contributed to his being misunderstood during the initial investigation.

Brian Wharton, the detective who led the original investigation, now supports Roberson’s case and acknowledges that convicting him was a mistake.

The case advocates hope Governor Abbott will act to prevent an unjust execution.

This would mean giving Roberson the chance for a new trial, as is warranted by the new scientific and legal evidence.