Karmelo Anthony Scores Legal Victory as Judge Removed From Case in Fight for New Trial

MCKINNEY, TEXAS — Karmelo Anthony has secured a significant legal victory in his effort to overturn his murder conviction after the judge who presided over his original trial was removed from the case.

Anthony, now 19, was convicted in June of murdering 17-year-old Austin Metcalf during a confrontation at a high school track meet in Frisco, Texas, and was sentenced to 35 years in prison. His defense has maintained that he acted in self-defense.

JUDGE JOHN ROACH REMOVED

On Wednesday, a visiting judge granted the defense’s request to remove Judge John Roach Jr. from further proceedings.

Anthony’s attorneys argued that Roach’s conduct during the trial and comments he made to the media afterward created an appearance of possible bias.

In one post-trial interview, Roach was asked whether the jury had reached the correct verdict. The defense argued that publicly defending his rulings and the outcome could undermine confidence in his impartiality.

The visiting judge agreed that, even if Roach could personally remain fair, the circumstances were sufficient to require his recusal.

A new judge, Michael B. Chitty, will oversee the next stage of the case.

ANTHONY IS ASKING FOR A NEW TRIAL

The removal of the judge does not overturn Anthony’s murder conviction.

Instead, it clears the way for a new judge to consider the defense’s request for a new trial.

Anthony’s attorneys argue that he was denied a fair trial and have raised concerns about courtroom restrictions imposed by Roach. They have also challenged the judge’s post-trial public comments.

The prosecution has pushed back against the defense’s arguments, maintaining that the original proceedings were properly conducted.

THE CASE THAT CAPTURED NATIONAL ATTENTION

The fatal confrontation happened in April 2025 during a high school track meet.

Anthony and Metcalf were both 17 at the time.

According to authorities, a dispute arose after Anthony was asked to move from an area under a team tent. The confrontation escalated, and Anthony stabbed Metcalf.

Anthony acknowledged the stabbing but maintained that he was protecting himself.

A jury ultimately rejected the self-defense claim and convicted him of murder. He was sentenced to 35 years in prison on June 9, 2026.

WHAT HAPPENS NEXT?

Anthony’s legal victory is significant — but it is only the beginning of his attempt to obtain a retrial.

A new judge is expected to hear arguments concerning the defense’s motion for a new trial.

Until that motion is granted, Anthony’s conviction and 35-year sentence remain in effect.

For the Metcalf family, the legal fight represents another painful chapter in the case.

For Anthony’s supporters, Wednesday’s ruling was a reason to celebrate. Dozens gathered outside the courthouse, with some chanting “Free Karmelo!”

Now the central question moves to the next courtroom:

Will the new judge give Karmelo Anthony another chance to defend himself before a jury — or will his murder conviction stand?

The answer could determine the next major chapter in a case that has already divided public opinion across the country.

Anthony remains convicted of murder unless and until a court grants a new trial or otherwise overturns the conviction. The recusal of Judge Roach does not itself vacate the verdict.