Texas Rep. Jasmine Crockett Draws Backlash Over Defense of Murder Convict Karmelo Anthony

Democratic U.S. Representative Jasmine Crockett of Texas sparked controversy after comments on her podcast defended Karmelo Anthony, the 19‑year‑old convicted of first‑degree murder for stabbing 17‑year‑old Austin Metcalf at a high‑school track meet in Frisco, Texas. Anthony was sentenced to 35 years in prison. Crockett expressed sympathy, saying she was “broken” for Anthony and argued the weapon “was small…you wouldn’t even think it’s a deadly weapon,” noting he “only stabbed once.” She also speculated about how she might have reacted if attacked.

The remarks contradicted trial testimony, which described a semi‑serrated pocket knife that penetrated Metcalf’s sternum and heart in a single, lethal thrust. Witnesses recounted that the stabbing was not preceded by a prolonged fight. The comments prompted criticism on social media and coverage by several media outlets, raising questions about Crockett’s judgment and the political ramifications of defending a convicted murderer.