Karmelo Anthony Seeks Court-Appointed Attorney Amid Financial Scrutiny

Karmelo Anthony, a 19-year-old convicted of murder, has filed for a taxpayer-funded attorney for his appeal, claiming he is 'penniless.' Public records indicate that his parents established a Texas business entity shortly after the fatal stabbing of Austin Metcalf on April 2, 2025. The records do not confirm any wrongdoing by Anthony's parents, who have not been charged with a crime. Anthony was sentenced to 35 years in prison following his conviction. In his filing for court-appointed counsel, he described himself as 'destitute' and unable to afford legal representation. A fundraising campaign launched for Anthony raised over $633,000 but was removed from public view after his conviction. The funds were reportedly intended to assist with legal expenses and family relocation. Anthony's parents have been linked to several business entities in Texas and Louisiana, but there is no evidence that these businesses generated revenue or were involved in the family's finances related to the case. Anthony's defense team and the fundraising platform have been contacted for further information regarding the funds.