Karmelo Anthony's Conviction Case Gets New Judge for Recusal Hearing

A new judge has been appointed to hear a motion to recuse Trial Judge John Roach in the Texas murder case of teen Karmelo Anthony, who was convicted of killing Austin Metcalf and sentenced to 35 years. Anthony’s new attorney, Russell Wilson (not the NFL player), argues that Judge Roach’s public comments after the verdict demonstrate bias and that prosecutors violated informal “gentleman’s agreements” regarding testimony, affecting the defense’s strategy.

The defense seeks both a new trial and a new judge, while prosecutors maintain the original trial was conducted ethically and dispute the defense’s allegations. The upcoming recusal hearing will determine whether Judge Roach can continue presiding over post‑trial motions.