Karmelo Anthony, a teenager from Texas, was convicted of killing a star athlete at a high school track meet. Despite his family gathering over $500,000 for legal fees, Anthony is requesting a free public defender for his appeal.
He was found guilty and sentenced to 35 years in prison by a Collin County jury for the murder of Austin Metcalf in 2025. Following his conviction, Anthony filed a notice of appeal, claiming he is “penniless, destitute, and indigent,” saying he cannot afford legal counsel, according to court documents.
The funds exceeded $634,000 before the campaign closed, nearly half of its $1.4 million target. The fundraiser, which has since been removed, aimed to cover both legal fees and additional expenses related to the case. It was organized by Anthony’s mother, Kala Hayes, and included costs for relocating the family and ensuring their safety due to threats.
The funds, not limited to legal defense, were also intended for safe relocation, counseling, and security measures.
The GiveSendGo website specifies that funds raised should exclusively cover legal defense costs without supporting living expenses. Money must go directly to a licensed attorney involved in the case, not to the defendant or organizer.
Anthony stabbed Metcalf, a junior at Memorial High School, during a track meet. The incident occurred in April 2025, shortly before the fundraiser began. GiveSendGo stated that funds were intended only for legal and pre-trial needs, and these have been fully distributed.
Fox News Digital has contacted Anthony’s attorney and GiveSendGo for further comments.
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