New trial hearing reveals extensive background reports on defendant and victim
During a motion hearing for a new trial, prosecutors and defense attorneys presented detailed school and criminal records for both Karmelo Anthony and Austin Metcalf, highlighting prior incidents of violence, bullying and offensive behavior.
A motion for a new trial hearing in the murder case of Austin Metcalf has prompted both prosecutors and the defense to disclose extensive background reports on the defendant, Karmelo Anthony, and the victim, Austin Metcalf. The hearing, held Thursday, marked the first public release of documents that had previously been kept from the jury.
The defense introduced more than 20 pages of Metcalf’s disciplinary history, which include juvenile probation for graffiti containing extremist symbols and slurs, multiple bullying and assault allegations from elementary school through high school, and several incidents involving profanity, threats and discussions of weapons. Court records also show Metcalf received in-school suspensions, counseling for anger management, and was barred from certain sports events after using profanity.
Prosecutors presented a 75-page dossier on Anthony’s teenage years in Louisiana and his recent conduct in Texas. The filing cites text messages indicating stalking behavior, threats toward his girlfriend, admissions of physical violence against peers, and discussions of weapons and drug-related activities. Additional records document school suspensions for fighting, threats of school violence, and possession of firearms and knives.
Both sides argue the newly disclosed information is relevant to assessing the fairness of the original trial and the character of the parties involved. The hearing is expected to continue through Friday, with the defense’s first witness slated to be attorney Toby Shook.