Texas Supreme Court Halts Execution of Robert Roberson

Roberson's execution was stayed to allow testimony on 'junk science' claims related to his conviction for his daughter's death.

Overview

Robert Roberson's execution was temporarily halted by the Texas Supreme Court just hours before it was scheduled to proceed.
Roberson was convicted of killing his 2-year-old daughter, Nikki, based on a diagnosis of shaken baby syndrome, which has since been challenged by new scientific understanding.
A bipartisan group of Texas lawmakers issued a subpoena for Roberson to testify regarding the validity of his conviction under a 2013 law allowing challenges based on forensic advancements.
The Texas Supreme Court's decision to stay the execution is unprecedented, as the court typically does not intervene in criminal matters.
Roberson, who maintains his innocence, is expected to appear at a legislative hearing, where his case will be reviewed further.