Dateline NBC 2 - “I’m Astonished”
Oct 10, 2025
Gretchen Sween, an attorney passionate about justice, shares her experience challenging Robert Roberson’s conviction. She delves into Nikki's overlooked medical history, revealing alarming findings about her health issues. Gretchen highlights how expert opinions evolved on shaken baby syndrome, impacting the case's validity. Her dedication shines as she investigates new leads to uncover the truth about Robert's innocence, showcasing the complexities of forensic science and defense strategy in capital cases.
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Shaken-Baby Science Shifted
- The shaken-baby 'triad' diagnosis lost scientific certainty as research showed other causes could produce the same signs.
- Gretchen Sween used that evolving science to obtain a stay and a new hearing for Robert Roberson.
Challenge Convictions Based On Discredited Science
- Use changes in scientific consensus as grounds to reopen convictions tied to outdated forensic claims.
- File timely legal petitions when evidence relies on discredited science, as Gretchen did to halt an execution.
Medical History Was Overlooked
- Nikki's medical records show frequent serious illnesses from infancy, contradicting family portrayals of her as generally healthy.
- Gretchen's experts concluded recent respiratory infection and sedating medications likely worsened her condition before death.
