Karmelo Anthony was convicted for the fatal stabbing of Austin Metcalf at a high school track meet in Frisco, Texas. Last week, he received a 35-year prison sentence. Recently released exhibits that the jurors examined provide insight into the evidence that influenced their decision.
Anthony’s family seeks an additional $250,000 to support his appeal. A prior effort raised nearly $634,000 but faced scrutiny over expenditure transparency. At a Dallas news conference, the family, including attorney Russell Wilson, discussed the ongoing appeal and financial needs.
Anthony, aged 19, is appealing the conviction. He claims an inability to afford legal representation. Wilson explained that while a judge denied a new trial request, the appeal process continues and may take over a year.
The new funding aims to cover legal fees and expert costs. Wilson emphasized that denial of a new trial doesn’t terminate the appeal process. The Dallas Court of Appeals might hold hearings after reviewing written arguments from both parties.
Originally, a GiveSendGo campaign launched for Anthony in April 2025 raised $633,908. The campaign closed after achieving its objectives, which included legal defenses and family relocation. The current campaign specifies that donations will go into a trust managed by Wilson, focusing solely on legal expenses.
Fundraising efforts now target a $250,000 goal, and $30,194 has already been contributed. Trinicia Ricks is named as the campaign’s organizer, and Wilson will manage the collected funds.
“These are deliberate lies,” stated Dominique Alexander, a civil rights activist, in response to claims about misuse of prior campaign funds. The funds helped Anthony’s family relocate due to threats.
Public records connected Anthony’s parents to business entities, but no wrongdoing has been found. Anthony declared himself indigent and incapable of funding his own legal representation for the appeal.
Wilson opted not to disclose the defense strategy, noting that it might influence future proceedings. Anthony remains in custody as the appeal advances.