Convicted Murderer Seeks Taxpayer-Funded Attorney Amid Business Developments
McKINNEY, Texas – Carmelo Anthony, convicted of murder, says he is “penniless” and is asking for a taxpayer-funded attorney for his appeal. Interestingly, public records reveal that his parents established a business in Texas shortly after the stabbing death of Austin Metcalfe.
There’s no evidence that funds from a recent fundraiser were processed through this new company, and I should note that Anthony’s parents haven’t been accused of any wrongdoing.
At just 19, Anthony was sentenced to 35 years in prison earlier this month after being found guilty of murdering Metcalfe during a high school track meet in Frisco in April 2025. Following the verdict, he filed for a public defender, claiming he’s “penniless, destitute and too poor to hire an attorney for his appeal.”
Just days after his conviction, a fundraiser had been launched on GiveSendGo, which raised $633,908. However, it was taken offline after the conviction. The organizers stated the campaign aimed to support Anthony and his family as they navigated the legal challenge. They expressed gratitude for the community’s support during “this incredibly difficult time.”
On another note, it’s worth mentioning that the family of Austin Metcalf reportedly faces threats and financial difficulties as Anthony’s fundraising efforts come under scrutiny. The funds raised were supposed to assist with legal fees and relocation costs stemming from the national attention the case received. GiveSendGo later confirmed that the funds were used appropriately, covering legal defenses and other family necessities.
Public records show that Anthony’s parents, Andrew Anthony III and Kara Hayes, are associated with multiple business entities in both Louisiana and Texas. For example, a company called Angelic Obsessions LLC was created in July 2021 but was disbanded by the Louisiana Secretary of State in late 2024. Shortly after Metcalfe’s death, a new version of the business was registered in Texas on April 26, 2025.
As for Anthony’s family’s financial status during this turbulent period, it’s unclear if these businesses generated any income or contributed to their finances during the ongoing criminal issues. Additionally, there are no details available about how the proceeds from the fundraiser might have been allocated.
Andrew Anthony III has chosen not to comment on these developments, which makes this situation even murkier. Meanwhile, inquiries have been sent to GiveSendGo regarding how the raised funds have been managed and whether any remain for the appeal.
Overall, it’s a complex situation with a lot hanging in the balance, and it highlights just how intertwined personal and legal matters can get — especially when public funds and community support come into play.
