Karmelo Anthony’s motion for a new trial in the stabbing death of  Austin Metcalf,17,  has been denied.   Anthony, 19, was convicted of murder and sentenced to 35 years in prison after a jury rejected his self-defense claim.  

In the motion for a new trial, Anthony's defense team claimed  the trial was unfair due to:

Restrictions on public access to proceedings, citing security concerns, a  “gentleman’s agreement” between prosecutors and defense to suppress potentially damaging character evidence about both Anthony and Metcalf, claims Anthony was coerced into waiving his right to testify because of the agreement, alleged jury instructions that self-defense did not apply if Anthony provoked the altercation.  

New allegations and evidence put before the court as prosecutors revealed that Anthony’s ex-girlfriend reported him to school for stalking and sent texts saying he was “lowkey on the verge” and wanted to “stab someone” and “lick the blood off the blade.”   Defense attorneys presented school and phone records showing Metcalf spray-painted racial slurs and phrases like “KKK” and “Heil Hitler.”  

 The Fifth Court of Appeals in Dallas will review the denial.  Anthony’s attorneys,  say they will continue the appeal and pursue all legal remedies.

Joining Nancy Grace today:

• Jeff Metcalf (TX) - Austin Metcalf's Father and founder of 'Austin Metcalf Foundation' - Non-profit will focus on emotional regulation and conflict resolution.  Website: https://austinmetcalffoundation.org 
• Dr. Bruce C. Carter - Director, Austin Metcalf Foundation 
• Renee Rockwell - Criminal Defense Attorney, Facebook: Renee.Rockwell
• Philip Dubé - Former Court-Appointed Counsel, Los Angeles County Public Defenders: Criminal & Constitutional Law, Forensics & Mental Health Advocacy
• Dave Mack - Crime Online investigative reporter