Karmelo Anthony granted recusal of judge in Austin Metcalf murder case

Aug. 19 (UPI) — The judge in the trial of Karmelo Anthony for the alleged murder of Austin Metcalf has been recused on Wednesday following a request from the defense.

Anthony’s attorneys appealed for Texas District Judge John Roach Jr. to be recused from the case. Judge Sid Harle granted the appeal and the appointment of a new judge is forthcoming.

Anthony’s attorneys sought Roach’s recusal over the judge publicly commenting on the trial and Anthony’s conviction. He is recused from any matters related to Anthony’s case moving forward.

The defense presented an 18-minute video with audio from an interview Roach took part in during Wednesday’s hearing. In the audio, Roach said he believes the jury came to the correct verdict.

Anthony, 19, was convicted of murder in June for the 2025 stabbing death of Metcalf, who was 17 years old. His legal team argued he acted in self defense and has appealed the conviction.

Anthony was sentenced to 35 years in prison in June.

The next hearing in the case will be held on Thursday. Anthony’s team is expected to motion for a new trial.

Administrative judge Ray Wheless will select the new judge to hear the motion for a retrial. Wheless also selected Harle to oversee Wednesday’s hearing.

Anthony is being represented in his appeals by civil rights and criminal defense attorneys who are providing their services pro bono.