New Judge to Hear Appeal in Frisco Track Murder

Texas teen Karmelo Anthony, convicted of murder in the 2025 Frisco track‑meet stabbing of Austin Metcalf, faces a Thursday hearing on whether he deserves a new trial, with retired Judge Michael Chitty presiding as the new post‑trial judge. The defense successfully moved to recuse the original trial judge, John Roach Jr., citing comments Roach made to media and concerns about impartiality after the verdict. Roach’s removal shifts oversight of the appeal to Chitty and intensifies focus on a disputed “gentleman’s agreement” restricting character evidence and the decision about whether Anthony would testify. Prosecutors and defense lawyers describe the case as high‑profile, noting Roach’s post‑trial statements and restrictive courtroom rules as central issues, while Anthony’s team argues the procedures violated his rights and potentially tainted the trial. If the new judge grants a new trial, the case would return to square one; otherwise Anthony would continue serving a 35‑year sentence. The proceedings have drawn substantial media attention and discussions about fairness, race, and the influence of public commentary on judicial processes.