Texas Inmate Scheduled for Execution in Toddler’s Death

HUNTSVILLE, Texas — Blaine Keith Milam is set for execution Thursday evening, more than 15 years after he was convicted of killing his then-girlfriend’s 13-month-old daughter, Amora Carson. The execution follows two previous delays.

Milam, 35, was sentenced to death for his role in the brutal death of the toddler in 2008. He and the child’s mother, Jesseca Carson, claimed they were attempting to perform an exorcism to expel demons from Amora. When police arrived at their home near Tatum, they discovered the severely injured child.

According to court documents, the child had multiple skull fractures, broken bones, and over 20 human bite marks. Forensic experts testified that Amora had suffered extensively, making it impossible to determine a specific cause of death due to the severity of her injuries.

Milam has maintained his innocence, suggesting that Carson, who is currently serving life in prison, was solely responsible for the alleged abuse. During the trial, evidence presented indicated that Milam inflicted the fatal injuries over a prolonged span, described by authorities as a torturous ordeal.

In his appeals, Milam’s lawyers have raised concerns about the reliability of the bite-mark evidence used to convict him, citing advancements in forensic science that have discredited such analysis. They are also contesting his mental competency, arguing that he is intellectually disabled and ineligible for execution under Supreme Court rulings.

The Texas Board of Pardons and Paroles unanimously denied Milam’s request for clemency on Tuesday, affirming the conviction despite the ongoing appeals process, which includes a pending application for a stay of execution in the U.S. Supreme Court.

If carried out, Milam’s execution will mark the fifth in Texas this year, underscoring the state’s active role in capital punishment.