Judge Denies Karmelo Anthony's New Trial; Retired Judge Rules

A Texas judge denied Karmelo Anthony’s bid for a new trial in the murder of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf, with an August hearing leading to a 35-year sentence. The defense argued trial conditions and restrictions, including public comments by Judge John Roach, tainted the proceedings; Roach was recused, and retired Judge Michael Chitty was appointed to decide the motion. Chitty ruled that the motion should be denied after reviewing the record, evidence, arguments, briefs, and applicable law, paving the way for an appeal in the Fifth Court of Appeals in Dallas. Prosecutors defended the original trial as fair and said the verdict should stand, while the defense said they would continue pursuing all legal remedies. The case drew national attention and sparked discussions about race, with authorities noting concerns about jury selection and trial conduct. The ruling keeps intact the murder conviction and the 35-year sentence as Anthony’s legal team presses for further review.