Retired Kaufman County District Judge Michael Chitty ruled against Karmelo Anthony’s motion for a new trial following his conviction in the fatal stabbing of fellow student Austin Metcalf.
Anthony’s attorneys argued that a “gentleman’s agreement” between the prosecution and defense affected his decision not to testify in his defense. They also argued that courtroom restrictions denied Anthony a fair trial.
Anthony’s defense maintained that he acted in self-defense when he stabbed Metcalf during the altercation at a high school track meet in April 2025.
Prosecutors, on the other hand, called the killing unjustified.
The 19-year-old was convicted of murder by a Collin County jury and sentenced to 35 years in prison.
His appellate attorney, Russell Wilson, said the legal team will continue to appeal the conviction and pursue every legal option available to Anthony. The case will now move forward through the appeals process.
