Overview
- Karmelo Anthony was convicted of murder in June 2026 and sentenced to 35 years for the April 2025 stabbing death of 17‑year‑old Austin Metcalf.
- Two post‑conviction hearings are scheduled at the Collin County Courthouse on Aug. 19 for a motion to recuse Judge John Roach Jr. and on Aug. 20 for a motion arguing for a new trial.
- Judge Sid Harle of Texas’ Fourth Administrative Judicial Region is set to hear the recusal request on Aug. 19, and a different judge would decide the new‑trial motion if Roach is removed.
- Defense filings list specific complaints including alleged courtroom access limits, an off‑the‑record evidentiary agreement that defense says was broken, and comments by Judge Roach that the defense says show bias, and prosecutors have formally disputed those claims.
- A team of pro bono civil‑rights and appellate attorneys now leads Anthony’s post‑conviction effort and the hearings will determine whether his conviction stays in place during the formal appeals process or is sent back for further proceedings.