Texas Teen Convicted of Murder Seeks Public Defender Amid Fundraising Controversy

Karmelo Anthony, a teenager from Texas, has been convicted of the murder of Austin Metcalf, a prominent high school athlete. The incident occurred during a track meet, resulting in Anthony receiving a 35-year prison sentence from a Collin County jury.

Despite his family raising over $634,000 through a crowdfunding platform for legal expenses, Anthony has requested a court-appointed public defender. In court documents obtained by Fox News Digital, Anthony claims he is “penniless, destitute, and indigent” and cannot afford legal representation.

The crowdfunding campaign, set up on GiveSendGo, was intended to gather funds to cover Anthony’s legal fees and other related expenses, with an aim of reaching $1.4 million. However, it was taken down after his conviction. The campaign described its purpose not only for legal defense but also to support family relocation due to safety threats, living costs, transportation, and counseling.

“While legal defense is critical, this fund is not solely for legal expenses. It supports urgent needs arising from the situation,” the campaign stated.

According to GiveSendGo’s policy, funds for legal defense must be directed strictly for that purpose and sent directly to a licensed attorney involved in the case.

Austin Metcalf, the victim, was a junior at Memorial High School in Frisco. He was fatally stabbed by Anthony, a student-athlete from Frisco Centennial High School, during a track meet.

In a statement, GiveSendGo clarified that the fundraiser supported pre-trial needs and other lawful purposes, including family relocation. With these needs met, the campaign was closed. “Our policy ensures transparency so donors know what they are supporting,” the platform stated.

Fox News Digital reached out to Anthony’s attorney and GiveSendGo for comments on the situation.