Karmelo Anthony’s new defense team has formally requested a retrial and the removal of Collin County Judge John Roach from any further involvement in his case. The 19-year-old was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to 35 years in prison for the fatal stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a Frisco high school track meet in April 2025.
Motions Filed by the Defense
Anthony’s attorneys filed two key motions: a verified motion to recuse Judge Roach and a motion for a new trial. They argue that Roach compromised his neutrality by publicly defending the jury’s verdict and his own rulings in post-trial media interviews.
When asked by a reporter whether the jury got the verdict right, Roach replied, “Yeah, they did.” He also discussed his decision to dismiss three Black potential jurors, stating he followed the law “to a T” and was “proud” of the ruling, even while acknowledging public perception concerns. The defense contends these comments make it impossible for him to fairly rule on post-trial motions.
Grounds for a New Trial
The 63-page motion for a new trial does not claim Anthony is innocent. Instead, it focuses on alleged consтιтutional violations during the original proceedings:
The courtroom was effectively closed to the public, with no media cameras allowed and only 27 seats available, which the defense says violated Anthony’s Sixth Amendment right to a public trial.
Prosecutors allegedly reneged on an off-the-record evidentiary agreement that was supposed to keep certain character and extraneous-act evidence out of the trial. This forced Anthony to choose between testifying and exposing himself to potentially damaging information.
Jury instructions allegedly made it difficult for the panel to properly consider a self-defense claim.
The cumulative effect of these issues, according to the defense, warrants a new trial.
What Happens Next
Judge Roach is expected to refer the recusal motion to a regional administrative judge, who will decide whether a formal hearing is needed. The new legal team, led by appellate attorney Russell Wilson and working pro bono, continues to push for the conviction and sentence to be overturned.
Anthony remains incarcerated at the Pack Unit near Navasota while the appeal process moves forward. An appeal does not automatically result in a new trial and can take many months to resolve.
The case continues to draw significant public attention due to its circumstances and the intense emotions surrounding the fatal confrontation between the two teenagers.
