Family of Karmelo Anthony Seeks Funds for Appeal

The family of 19-year-old Karmelo Anthony is attempting to raise $250,000 to support his appeal following the stabbing death of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf at a high school track event in Frisco, Texas.

Karmelo was convicted of murder in June, but he has since initiated an appeal, claiming he lacks the financial means to hire an attorney, as reported.

Interestingly, while the family seeks additional funds, there are concerns about the nearly $634,000 that was previously raised for him.

During a recent press conference in Dallas, where family members and attorneys discussed the new fundraising effort, an NBC 5 reporter inquired about the earlier donations. Dominique Alexander, the president of NGAN, responded defensively. “I can’t speak to that. We’re not gonna comment on that,” he said, adding that they wouldn’t address inquiries regarding past spending.

After being convicted, Anthony received a 35-year prison sentence. Shortly thereafter, he claimed to be broke and unable to afford legal representation, despite his family having raised $625,000 at that point.

The situation is perplexing considering the family’s fundraising efforts prior to the trial. Funds collected were stated to be for legal fees, but a portion was also earmarked for the family’s living and security needs. This fundraising page was subsequently closed after Anthony’s conviction, having amassed over $629,724.

In August, new details emerged about the evidence presented during his trial, including claims from his girlfriend, who mentioned they were experiencing a breakup and that he had been stalking her. She noted that he texted her, expressing he was “on the verge.”

Additionally, Collin County prosecutor Bill Wirskye revealed that Anthony had shared his fascination with the thought of stabbing someone and mentioned a gruesome interest in licking the victim’s blood off the knife.

Later, a judge denied Anthony’s plea for a retrial.