Karmelo Anthony Seeks New Trial in 35-Year Stabbing Case Over Withheld Evidence Deal
Updated
Updated · CNN · Aug 21
Karmelo Anthony Seeks New Trial in 35-Year Stabbing Case Over Withheld Evidence Deal
3 articles · Updated · CNN · Aug 21
Summary
A Texas judge heard Karmelo Anthony’s bid for a new trial after defense lawyers said an off-the-record agreement to withhold evidence tainted his June murder trial in the fatal stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf.
Prosecutor Bill Wirskye said both sides agreed to keep out inflammatory material because the case had already drawn racial tensions, death threats and witness intimidation, and he argued Anthony still received a fair trial.
The withheld evidence included Anthony’s text fantasizing about stabbing someone and allegations he was angry before the meet, while the defense said Metcalf had used racial slurs and bullied Black classmates.
Judge Michael Chitty, newly assigned after the trial judge was removed over comments that jurors 'got it right,' will continue the hearing Friday; no ruling timeline was given.