Karmelo Anthony, who is serving a 35-year sentence for murder, is being held in a Texas lockup and has been eating meals that include flapjacks, chicken parmesan, and chili.
Anthony, 19, began his sentence at the Wallace Pack Unit two weeks ago following his conviction for fatally stabbing high school athlete Austin Metcalf last April. His diet has featured American diner-style foods, according to reports. He reportedly received pancakes the day after arriving and fried eggs for breakfast the next day.
Lunches and dinners have included items such as pork enchiladas and barbecue beef. Beyond the menu, Anthony is in protective custody due to the high-profile nature of his case, with concerns raised about his safety. Civil rights attorney Lee Merritt, who is leading Anthony's appeal, stated that there is a possibility of individuals attempting to visit the prison or deliver unauthorized items.
Merritt noted that "there has been a lot of chatter on the internet, mostly well-wishers, trying to get to the jail and trying to send him things to the jail… all things that are causing some safety concerns." Anthony has epilepsy and requires consistent access to medication, which his family has been responsible for delivering during his transfers between facilities.
A team of civil rights attorneys announced they will represent Anthony pro bono in the appeal of his murder conviction. He filed a notice of appeal less than 24 hours after being found guilty of first-degree murder for the slaying of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf.
The conviction stemmed from an incident at a high school track meet where Metcalf reportedly asked Anthony to leave his team's tent multiple times. According to accounts, Anthony refused, stating, "Touch me and find out," before Metcalf pushed him. Anthony then produced a knife and stabbed Metcalf in the chest, an act that proved fatal. The jury deliberated for approximately three hours before returning the first-degree murder verdict.