Karmelo Anthony Files Motion for New Trial
Karmelo Anthony, the Texas teenager convicted in the fatal stabbing of Austin Metcalf, is asking the court to overturn his murder conviction and grant him a new trial. The request comes just weeks after a jury sentenced the 19-year-old to 35 years in prison for the 2025 incident that took place during a high school track meet in Frisco, Texas.
Anthony’s newly appointed legal team has also requested that the judge who oversaw the original trial step aside from any future proceedings. The defense argues that several legal errors affected the fairness of the trial and should be reviewed by the court.
Defense Raises Constitutional Concerns
According to court filings, Anthony’s attorneys claim prosecutors improperly influenced their client into giving up his right to testify during the trial. They argue this decision was made after an alleged understanding regarding the use of character-related evidence changed late in the proceedings.
The defense further contends that Anthony’s constitutional rights were compromised, claiming restrictions on courtroom access affected the public nature of the trial. They also argue the jury received incorrect instructions when evaluating Anthony’s self-defense claim.
Judge Recusal Request Adds New Twist
Along with requesting a new trial, Anthony’s lawyers have filed a separate motion asking that the trial judge be removed from handling any post-conviction matters. The defense believes public comments made after the verdict could create an appearance of bias.
At this stage, prosecutors have not publicly responded to the latest legal filings. The court will decide whether the motions have sufficient legal grounds before determining if additional hearings or a retrial will move forward.
Case Continues to Draw National Attention
The case has remained in the national spotlight since the fatal confrontation that resulted in the death of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a school athletic event in April 2025. Anthony maintained that he acted in self-defense, but jurors rejected that argument and found him guilty of murder, leading to his 35-year prison sentence.
As the appeals process begins, the court’s decisions on the new trial request and judge recusal motion could shape the next phase of one of Texas’ most closely watched criminal cases.
