Karmelo Anthony’s Decision Not to Testify Becomes Key Issue in Retrial Bid

Karmelo Anthony, 19, had initially planned to testify during his trial over the death of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf, but ultimately decided not to take the stand.

According to Anthony’s attorney, the decision was withdrawn because of concerns that prosecutors could introduce damaging information about Anthony’s past if he testified.

The dispute has now become part of Anthony’s motion for a new trial. Anthony was convicted and sentenced to 35 years in prison in June 2026.

The defense argues that prosecutors and defense attorneys had reached an agreement limiting the introduction of sensitive information concerning the backgrounds of both Anthony and Metcalf. According to the defense, those restrictions contributed to Anthony’s decision about whether to testify.

Prosecutors dispute that interpretation, maintaining that the possibility of Anthony taking the stand was not included in the original agreement.

The issue could prove significant as the court considers whether Anthony’s trial was conducted fairly and whether a new trial should be granted.

Judge Michael Chitty has not yet ruled on Anthony’s request for a retrial. The case therefore remains unresolved as the court weighs the competing arguments from both sides.

Source: NBC news