The problem
For decades, doctors and prosecutors believed that certain findings in an infant proved they had been violently shaken. This is the Triad (brain bleeding, retinal bleeding and brain swelling). The Triad has been the cornerstone for Shaken Baby Syndrome diagnosis for nearly five decades. But today, mounting exonerations and new science continue to raise questions about that diagnosis. Since 2001, over 2,000 people have been accused of SBS – and at least 213 have been cleared when new evidence showed no abuse at all. Our mission is to uncover the truth behind these cases, prevent wrongful convictions, and ensure no innocent caregiver is torn from their child due to a mistaken diagnosis.
The Injustice
The Shaken Baby hypothesis has not withstood scrutiny as science has evolved. These words come from the highest criminal court in Texas, which recently overturned a conviction because the old SBS science was debunked. Unfortunately, not everyone has been so lucky. Loving parents have been labeled killers based on this shaky science. One father, Robert Roberson, spent 20 years on death row for a crime that medical experts now say never happened. Families like his have lived nightmares: a medical crisis misjudged as abuse, children taken away, innocent mothers and fathers behind bars. We are here to change that story.
Who We Are
ShakenBabyDebate.com is more than a website – it’s a movement. Founded by a determined parent and child advocate, and inspired by the ground-breaking book "Shaken Baby Debate," this site brings together heart-wrenching real stories, eye-opening research, and opportunities to make a difference. We blend credible science with compassionate storytelling so that you, as a parent, caregiver, or concerned citizen, can understand what’s at stake and how to help.
Because every innocent family deserves justice, and every child deserves the truth.
How You Can Help
Join the movement. Explore our articles, learn the facts, and stand with us in advocating for change. Together, we can protect loving families and ensure that no one is wrongly accused of harming a child ever again. Learn the truth about SBS and be a part of the solution – your voice could save a life.
About the Book
"Shaken Baby Debate" Dr. Arene wrote "Shaken: How Junk Science Tears Families Apart" to expose the issues behind SBS accusations. This book is not just for legal professionals—it’s for parents, caregivers, and anyone concerned about justice. It includes real stories, scientific breakdowns, and expert interviews that challenge the traditional SBS narrative
Meet the Founder
ShakenBabyDebate.com was founded by Dr. Ike Arene, an ER physician and child advocate who has seen firsthand the devastation of wrongful SBS accusations. His mission is to shed light on the flawed science that has led to innocent families being torn apart.
Latest Highlights
Stay Connected Stay tuned for more success stories, investigative blog posts, and ways you can get involved. Together, we can rewrite the narrative and bring truth and compassion to the forefront of the shaken baby debate.
New Trials Granted
In a landmark decision, the Texas Court of Criminal Appeals vacated a 2000 SBS conviction, stating that today’s evidence “would likely yield an acquittal” . Courts are finally reconsidering cases built on outdated science – a huge win for justice.
Life Saved on Death Row
In October 2024, widespread public outcry and 133,000 petition signatures helped halt the execution of an autistic father convicted on discredited SBS evidence. He was almost the first person executed over a now-debunked theory, but thanks to supporters, he lives to fight another day.
Research Revelations
A recent medical review found no solid scientific proof that shaking alone (without impact) can cause the “tell-tale” brain injuries once blamed on SBS. The findings support what many experts have argued – those injuries can stem from accidents or health issues, not just abuse.