Reflecting on Wrongful Conviction and Justice

The New York Times

In a poignant reflection, an ex-chief detective recounts his involvement in the wrongful conviction of Robert Robertson. In 2002, Robertson was arrested and convicted of murdering his daughter, Nikki, based on the assumption she died from shaken baby syndrome. The detective recalls Robertson's unemotional demeanor at the hospital, which was later understood to be a result of autism, a fact never considered during the trial. Over the years, the guilt associated with this case has weighed heavily on the detective. New insights reveal that Nikki had underlying medical issues that might have contributed to her injuries. Furthermore, shaken baby syndrome has since been discredited by parts of the medical community, establishing reasonable doubt about Robert’s guilt. The detective now advocates for the abolition of the death penalty, emphasizing the inability of human institutions to deliver infallible justice. The narrative underscores the profound impact of errors within the justice system and calls for systemic change.

Highlights

• Ex-chief detective recounts wrongful conviction of Robert Robertson in 2002.
• Robertson's daughter, Nikki, was presumed to have died from shaken baby syndrome.
• Robertson's unemotional response, later attributed to autism, was misinterpreted.
• New insights reveal Nikki's underlying medical issues were not considered.
• Shaken baby syndrome, central to the conviction, has been discredited.
• Detective expresses deep regret and acknowledges the flawed investigation.
• Advocates for abolishing the death penalty due to fallibility of the justice system.
• Robert Robertson spent two decades on death row based on wrongful conviction.
• Nikki's condition and Robert's autism were not addressed during the trial.
• Call for systemic change to prevent future miscarriages of justice.