Karmelo Anthony, convicted of murdering 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a high school track meet last year, sought to have his conviction and 35-year prison sentence overturned. However, his efforts encountered a significant obstacle when a judge denied his motion for a new trial, citing the weight of evidence against him.
Judge Recused, New Judge Takes Over
District Judge John Roach Jr., who presided over Anthony’s original trial, was recently recused from further proceedings. Retired Judge Michael Chitty was appointed to oversee the subsequent legal steps. Anthony’s defense team immediately filed for a new trial under Chitty’s jurisdiction, introducing fresh character evidence related to both Anthony and the victim.
New Evidence Revealed in Court
The defense presented information from police reports, school records, and cellphone data that had not been disclosed during the initial trial. This material was previously withheld due to a so-called “gentleman’s agreement” between prosecutors and defense attorneys, as noted by prosecutor Bill Wirskye.
Among the new evidence were text messages sent by Anthony hours before the killing, including one stating, “I’m lowk on the verge.” On the morning of the murder, Anthony’s ex-girlfriend informed a staff member at Centennial High School about his stalking behavior, which included driving by her home and refusing to end their relationship.
Prosecutors Highlight Troubling Texts
Prosecutors introduced additional texts allegedly sent by Anthony, in which he admitted to violent and criminal behavior. These included confessions of punching girls, committing burglaries, discussing robbing someone for $300, and threatening to vandalize a house over a grudge. One alarming message read, “Imma shoot the school up tmr with my blick.”
In conversations with his ex-girlfriend, Anthony reportedly wrote, “I like punching people,” “when I get mad I see red,” “when I get mad I blackout,” and “when I get mad I can’t control myself.” Prosecutors also cited a chilling threat: “When I stab sb im gonna lick there blood off the blade.”
Allegations Against the Victim Also Surface
The court documents revealed allegations about Austin Metcalf and his twin brother Hunter. The brothers were previously caught spray-painting racist remarks and received juvenile probation. Additional claims included Metcalf using racial slurs at school, swearing at a teacher, discussing bringing a gun to school, bullying other students, and sending provocative texts.
Judge Denies Retrial Request
On Saturday, Judge Chitty denied the defense’s motion for a new trial without providing detailed reasoning. Russell Wilson, Anthony’s attorney, affirmed their commitment to continue advocating for their client through all legal avenues, including an appeal to the Fifth Court of Appeals.
Prosecutors and Coalition Respond
Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis expressed respect for the court’s decision, emphasizing confidence in the jury’s verdict and the judicial process. Willis also extended condolences to the Metcalf family following the recent hearing.
The Stand With Karmelo Coalition criticized the trial’s fairness, citing constitutional and legal errors. They raised concerns about restricted public access during the trial, changes in evidence agreements between the defense and prosecution, and alleged errors in jury instructions that affected the consideration of Anthony’s self-defense claim.
Ongoing Legal Battle
Despite the setback, Anthony’s defense remains determined to pursue further appeals. The case continues to draw attention due to the severity of the crime, the complex legal arguments, and the new evidence introduced after the initial trial.
The denial of a retrial marks a pivotal moment in the legal proceedings, underscoring the challenges faced by defendants seeking to overturn convictions amid evolving case details.
Source: Read the original reporting.
