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NewsWPLG Local 10 – Main FeedAugust 20, 2026Miami-Dade

Defense attorneys request new trial for Karmelo Anthony in high school track meet stabbing

Attorneys for Karmelo Anthony are seeking a new trial for his 35-year prison sentence, arguing that an off-the-record agreement between legal teams to exclude character evidence during his original trial constituted a legal error. A new judge has been assigned to consider the request following the removal of the original presiding judge.

criminal justicecourt proceedingshomicidelegal ethics
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Why It Matters

The court's decision will determine whether Anthony, convicted of killing 17-year-old Austin Metcalf, will face a or continue serving his 35-year sentence.

Key Facts

  • Karmelo Anthony was sentenced to 35 years in prison for the stabbing death of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf.
  • The incident occurred at a high school track meet near Dallas.
  • Defense attorneys argue a new trial is warranted due to an off-the-record agreement that excluded character evidence for both the defendant and the victim.
  • The original trial judge, John Roach, was removed from the case after giving a TV interview stating jurors 'got it right'.
  • Judge Michael Chitty has been assigned to hear the motion for a new trial.
  • Prosecutor Bill Wirskye stated that both sides agreed to exclude evidence of Anthony's alleged obsession with weapons and Metcalf's alleged history of using racial slurs.
  • Witnesses testified that the confrontation began over a dispute regarding a tent at the track meet.
  • The case has been marked by reports of threats against the judge, witnesses, and legal teams.
  • The hearing on the retrial motion began on Thursday and was scheduled to continue on Friday.

Who's Mentioned

personMike Howard“Anthony's lead attorney during the original trial.”personKarmelo Anthony“Defendant convicted of stabbing Austin Metcalf.”locationMcKinney, Texas“Location of the court proceedings.”personAustin Metcalf“17-year-old victim of the stabbing.”personMichael Chitty“Judge assigned to decide on the retrial motion.”personBill Wirskye“Prosecutor in the case.”personRussell Wilson“Defense attorney representing Anthony in the retrial motion.”personJohn Roach“Original judge removed from the case.”