Karmelo Anthony Seeks New Judge and New Trial as Legal Team Challenges Murder Conviction

Anthony's new defense team is asking for a different judge to handle his post-trial proceedings and seeking a new trial, arguing that several issues affected the fairness of his original case.

MCKINNEY, Texas — Karmelo Anthony is returning to court this week as his new legal team begins its effort to challenge his murder conviction and seek a new trial.

Anthony, 19, was convicted of murder in June in connection with the fatal stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf during a high school track meet in Frisco in April 2025. A Collin County jury sentenced Anthony to 35 years in prison after rejecting his claim of self-defense.

Defense Wants a Different Judge

Anthony's attorneys are asking for State District Judge John Roach Jr. to be removed from handling the remaining post-trial proceedings.

The defense argues that comments Roach made following the trial create an appearance that he may not be impartial when considering Anthony's request for a new trial.

A separate judge, Sid Harle, is scheduled to hear the request concerning Roach on August 19.

The request does not mean Roach has been removed. The court still has to consider the defense's arguments before making a decision.

Why Anthony's Attorneys Want a New Trial

Anthony's new legal team has also filed a motion asking the court to grant him a new trial.

The motion raises several alleged legal and constitutional problems involving the original proceedings.

Among the issues raised by the defense are restrictions on public access to the courtroom, arguments concerning the jury instructions, and claims involving an agreement between the defense and prosecutors about what evidence would be presented at trial.

The defense argues that these issues affected Anthony's ability to receive what they consider a fair trial.

The Dispute Over Anthony's Decision Not to Testify

Another significant issue involves Anthony's decision not to testify during his trial.

According to the defense's arguments, prosecutors and the defense had reached an informal agreement concerning certain character and other potentially prejudicial evidence.

Anthony's attorneys contend that the understanding affected their trial strategy and ultimately played a role in the decision that Anthony would not testify.

Prosecutors have disputed the defense's claims and have maintained that the trial was conducted properly and in accordance with the court's rulings.

What Happens This Week?

The legal proceedings are scheduled to take place over two days.

Wednesday, August 19: The defense is scheduled to argue its request to have Judge John Roach removed from the post-trial proceedings.

Thursday, August 20: Anthony's attorneys are expected to argue their request for a new trial.

These hearings do not mean Anthony has received a new trial. The court must first consider the defense's motions and arguments.

The Bigger Picture

The case has received widespread attention since Metcalf's death, but the current proceedings are focused on whether Anthony's original trial was legally and constitutionally sound.

The defense is asking the court to overturn the conviction and give Anthony another opportunity to defend himself at trial.

For now, Anthony's murder conviction and 35-year sentence remain in place.

Q Spot News will continue following the case as the court considers the defense's requests.