Reflecting on a Wrongful Death Row Conviction
The New York Times
William Hatfield, a former detective, recounts the story of Robert Robertson, a man on death row for allegedly murdering his daughter, Nikki, over twenty years ago. Initially arrested due to his seemingly unemotional response at the hospital and suspicion of shaken baby syndrome, Robertson's case was marred by investigative oversights. Hatfield reveals he later realized Robertson's autism explained his flat affect, and that the medical condition and injuries Nikki suffered were not thoroughly investigated. Hatfield expresses his regret and burden, emphasizing the need for justice reform and the abolition of the death penalty due to human fallibility.
Highlights
- • William Hatfield recounts his involvement in the Robertson case.
- • 2-year-old Nikki Robertson was brought to the hospital unresponsive.
- • Robert Robertson showed no visible emotion at the hospital.
- • Authorities suspected shaken baby syndrome as the cause of death.
- • Robert was convicted of murder and sent to death row.
- • Hatfield later joined the ministry, feeling burdened by the case.
- • Autism was identified as a reason for Robert's flat affect.
- • Medical issues Nikki had were not considered during the trial.
- • Shaken baby syndrome has been discredited in the medical community.
- • Hatfield calls for the abolition of the death penalty due to judicial errors.
* dvch2000 helped DAVEN to generate this content on 07/31/2024 .
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