Texas Court Halts Execution in Highly Debated Death Row Case

The Texas Court of Criminal Appeals has granted a stay of execution for a controversial death row inmate, halting the state’s plans just days before the scheduled execution. Robert Roberson, who was convicted of the death of his toddler daughter, is thought by many to be innocent in the child's death.

Details on the Texas Court’s Stay of Execution Decision

According to Texas Public Radio, a temporary halt in Roberson's execution was ordered by the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals on Thursday (10/9/2025). This isn't the first time Roberson's execution was halted- in 2024, he was granted a stay 90 minutes before his execution was set to take place. It has not yet been determined if he will receive a new trial, although many are advocating for one.

Read More: What’s Happening To Texas Death Row Inmate Numbers In 2025?

Why the Case Has Sparked Public Controversy

Many people believe that Roberson was convicted based on a combination of junk science, invalid testimony, and a prejudice/ misunderstanding of his Autism. Dr. Phil is one such advocate for Roberson, going so far as to testify on his behalf:

For deep dive into the details of Roberson's case, Read More: Texas Man Faces Execution Amid Doubts Over Toddler's Death. To boil it down- Roberson was convicted of killing his daughter by "Shaken Baby Syndrome" despite that "science" being largely debunked, his daughter not having the requisite injuries associated with it, and that his daughter was two, not a small infant.

What Happens Next for the Death Row Inmate

This stay gives Roberson's lawyers time to advocate for a new trial or at least a reduction of his sentence to life in prison or better. Personally, I have followed Roberson's case for years, and I do not believe a crime even happened. I believe he was an overwhelmed man who was ill-equipped to handle raising his sick daughter alone. I believe he has suffered far too much and should be released from prison.

Roberson was the last person to be scheduled for execution in 2025, as Texas always takes a holiday "break" from the practice. Only five men were executed this year, including:

Steven Nelson: Read More: Steven Nelson Suffocated Texas Minister

Richard Tabler Read More: Texas Spree Killer Shot Strippers & Manager

Moises Mendonza Read More: Texas Man Burned Her Body Under A Brush Pile

Matthew Johnson Read More: Texas Man Scheduled to Be Executed For Bleach Fire Murder

Blaine Milam Read More: The Shocking Case Of Blaine Milam In Rusk County, Texas