Judge Denies New Trial Request for Teen Convicted in Track Meet Murder

Judge Michael Chitty of Collin County, Texas, has denied a motion filed by Karmelo Anthony’s legal team to grant the teenager a new trial. This decision means that Anthony will remain incarcerated as he serves his 35-year sentence for the murder of Austin Metcalf during a track meet in April 2025.

Anthony was convicted after a contentious trial where he argued self-defense but admitted to stabbing Metcalf, who died from the injuries sustained. The case garnered significant attention due to allegations that Judge John Roach had violated Anthony’s right to a fair and open trial by restricting media coverage of proceedings. This led to Roach being recused from further involvement in the case.

The defense team claimed that prosecutors breached an informal agreement not to introduce character evidence about either the victim or the defendant during the trial. Lead attorney Mike Howard testified at a hearing on the motion for a new trial, stating he was shocked when prosecutor Bill Wirskye informed him that their deal would not apply if Anthony took the stand. However, Judge Roach had disagreed with Wirskye’s interpretation of the agreement.

Despite these arguments and testimony from Howard regarding the alleged breach of protocol, Chitty ultimately ruled against granting a new trial. In his order, Chitty stated, “Upon reviewing the motion, the record, the evidence and argument, the briefs and the relevant case law, the Court has determined that the motion should be denied.”

Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis expressed respect for Judge Chitty’s decision while reaffirming confidence in the legal process. "The jury's guilty verdict stands," Willis said in a statement to CBS News. "We remain confident in the process and our thoughts are with the Metcalf family."

Russell Wilson, one of Anthony’s attorneys, disagreed with the ruling but pledged to continue pursuing appeals. “We respectfully disagree with the ruling and remain firmly committed to protecting our client's rights,” Wilson told CBS News. “The denial of our motion does not end this case; we will pursue every legal remedy available.”

This case highlights ongoing debates about judicial fairness and the handling of high-profile cases in Texas, particularly concerning restrictions on media access during trials.