Judge denies Karmelo Anthony new trial
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The gist
A Texas judge denied Karmelo Anthony's new trial request, keeping his 35-year murder sentence. The case now moves to appeals court, where his self-defense claim will be reviewed.
Background
Karmelo Anthony, 19, was convicted in June 2026 of murdering 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a Frisco track meet in April 2025. He was sentenced to 35 years in prison. His defense argued self-defense and claimed a 'gentleman's agreement' between trial attorneys kept him from testifying. The judge denied the motion, citing a review of evidence and arguments, without elaborating.
How it unfolded
- Apr 2025Anthony fatally stabbed Austin Metcalf at a Frisco ISD track meet.
- Jun 2026A Collin County jury found Anthony guilty of murder and sentenced him to 35 years in prison.
- Aug 20, 2026 -21, 2026Two-day hearing on Anthony's motion for a new trial, with testimony from attorneys about the 'gentleman's agreement'.
- Aug 22, 2026Judge Michael Chitty denied the motion for a new trial; defense attorney Russell Wilson said they will appeal.
Who’s saying what
- Defense
- Russell Wilson said the defense will continue to advocate vigorously through every lawful avenue.
- Prosecution
- Collin County DA Greg Willis said the jury's guilty verdict stands and they remain confident in the process.
- Analysts
- Dallas criminal defense attorney David Finn noted new trials are rarely granted unless serious misconduct or new evidence emerges.
Still unverified
The defense's claim that a 'gentleman's agreement' was broken by prosecutors, which they say prevented Anthony from testifying, was denied by a county prosecutor who said the trial was conducted ethically.