Attorneys for Karmelo Anthony have revealed a "gentleman's agreement" allegedly made with Texas prosecutors before his trial for the murder of Austin Metcalf. The agreement, described in court documents, aimed to restrict the evidence presented to focus solely on the events that occurred at Kuykendall Stadium on April 2, 2025, the day of the stabbing.
According to the documents filed by Anthony's current legal team, the deal prevented both the defense and prosecution from discussing the character and family history of both Anthony and the victim, Austin Metcalf. In exchange for this agreement, Anthony's defense team reportedly refrained from introducing evidence related to substantial family violence that Anthony had witnessed and experienced.
Mike Howard, Anthony's lawyer during the trial, reportedly agreed not to present evidence concerning the Metcalf twins' character, reputation, or prior acts of violence, bullying, or racism. The prosecution, under the terms of the agreement, also agreed not to present Anthony's school disciplinary records or use his cellphone data.
The "gentleman's agreement" has surfaced as Anthony's civil rights attorneys, including Russell Wilson and Brooke Cluse of Ben Crump Law, work to secure a new trial. They are preparing for a recusal hearing scheduled for Wednesday in McKinney, Texas. The defense is seeking the removal of Judge John Roach, who presided over Anthony's murder trial, alleging that his public statements about the case compromised judicial impartiality.
Judge Roach, who is set to retire on December 31, had previously stated his commitment to ensuring a fair trial for both parties and explained his decision to bar cameras from the courtroom. He told WFAA that cameras can influence the behavior of judges, lawyers, and witnesses. Roach also affirmed the jury's verdict, stating they reached their conclusion based on the law and the evidence presented in court.
If Judge Roach is recused, Anthony's defense team plans to file a motion for a new trial, which is expected to be decided by August 24. Under Texas law, a judge has 75 days from the date of sentencing to rule on a motion for a new trial; if no ruling is made within that timeframe, the motion is considered denied.
Bill Wirskye, the First Assistant at the Collin County District Attorney’s Office, previously told KXAS-TV that the prosecution team conducted the trial ethically and in full compliance with the court's rulings and any agreements with defense counsel.