Texas Legislators Issue Rare Subpoena to Death Row Inmate Hours Before Execution

In atypical and significant action, Texas legislators have made a daring decision by issuing a subpoena for death row inmate Robert Roberson just hours prior to his scheduled execution. Following a daylong hearing on Wednesday, the Texas House Committee on Criminal Jurisprudence issued the order to re-examine the controversial evidence that resulted in Roberson’s conviction.

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The subpoena, supported by state Representatives Brian Harrison and Jeff Leach, follows the denials of Roberson’s appeals for clemency by the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals and the state’s Board of Pardons and Paroles. Roberson was convicted of allegedly shaking his infant daughter to death; however, recent medical insights have cast doubt on the validity of the “shaken baby” theory that was employed during his trial.

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“This is an unprecedented, groundbreaking action,” stated Benjamin Wolff, director of the Texas Office of Capital and Forensic Writs. “The subpoena underscores significant worries regarding the fairness of Roberson’s trial and the necessity to thoroughly examine all evidence prior to moving forward with the final penalty.”

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Roberson’s attorney, Gretchen Sween, conveyed optimism that the subpoena might illuminate the case further. “The decision underscores the profound concern lawmakers have regarding the potential for an unjust execution,” she stated.

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The actions of the House committee could lead to new legal challenges, as state authorities weigh the decision to move forward with the execution or postpone it for additional investigation.

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