What is the main reason for Russell Maze's potential wrongful conviction?

The conviction was based on the shaken baby syndrome diagnosis by a medical examiner, which has since been questioned by experts.

Why did Dr. Bruce Levy change his mind about Alex Maze's death?

Dr. Levy received new information about Alex's medical history and the understanding of shaken baby syndrome has evolved.

What is the current status of Russell Maze's case in Tennessee?

Russell Maze remains in prison despite his conviction being challenged, as courts have yet to overturn his life sentence.

Home / Crime and Justice / Doctor Admits Wrongful Conviction: Father Imprisoned for Life

Doctor Admits Wrongful Conviction: Father Imprisoned for Life

17 Dec, 2025

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Summary

Medical examiner admits he was wrong about shaken baby syndrome.
Father Russell Maze spent decades in prison for a crime he says he didn't commit.
New analysis suggests baby Alex Maze died from natural causes, not abuse.

Doctor Admits Wrongful Conviction: Father Imprisoned for Life

A former chief medical examiner has admitted he was wrong about the cause of a baby's death nearly 25 years ago, a mistake that sent Russell Maze to prison for life. Dr. Bruce Levy's original autopsy concluded 19-month-old Alex Maze died from shaken baby syndrome, a finding that was critical in securing Maze's murder conviction in 1999.

However, after re-examining the case with new information on Alex's medical history, Dr. Levy now believes Alex died of natural causes and that Russell Maze is innocent. This shift reflects a broader reevaluation of shaken baby syndrome diagnoses, as medical experts increasingly recognize that symptoms once attributed to abuse can stem from underlying medical conditions.