Mr. Roberson was convicted in 2002 of killing his two-year-old daughter, Nikki Curtis. At trial, the prosecution argued that the manner of death was “shaken baby syndrome,” a condition never scientifically validated. Per the Innocence Project, “Mr. Roberson’s case is riddled with unscientific evidence, inaccurate and misleading medical testimony, and prejudicial treatment.”
Mr. Roberson’s daughter was chronically ill, sick with a fever near or at the time of her death and “suffered a short fall from bed.” Mr. Roberson had taken Niki to doctors and emergency rooms for assistance on several occasions. In fact, Mr. Roberson took Nikki to the emergency room when he found her unconscious prior to her death.
Medical staff did not take a comprehensive look at Nikki’s medical history, instead police and staff immediately turned their suspicions to Mr. Roberson who is Autistic and allegedly lacked the emotions they expected of a parent whose child was in medical crisis.
The medical and scientific evidence supported by expert findings now show that Nikki likely died of accidental and natural causes including, severe viral and bacterial pneumonia that progressed to sepsis and septic shock. Despite this evidence of innocence, the government continues its plan to execute Mr. Roberson on October 17, 2024. For more information on this case and how to help advocate for Mr. Roberson see the Innocence Project’s website.