A judge in Collin County, Texas, is facing not only outrage but death threats after making a controversial decision to reduce the bail for a 17-year-old murder suspect. Judge Angela Tucker is now under increased security after lowering Karmelo Anthony’s bail from $1,000,000 to $250,000, allowing the teen to be released under house arrest.
Anthony is accused of fatally stabbing fellow high school student Austin Metcalf during a track meet in the city of Frisco on April 2. According to his defense, the teen, described as both an honor student and the captain of his school’s track and football teams, claims he acted in self-defense following an altercation with Metcalf.
Despite the severity of the charges, Judge Tucker considered Anthony’s previously clean record and decided to reduce his bond, igniting much backlash. Since the decision, Tucker’s personal information has been leaked online, and her safety has been threatened. The situation has escalated to the point where the Collin County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI are now involved, ensuring her protection with enhanced security measures.
As part of his release, Anthony is required to wear an ankle monitor, remain under strict house arrest, and have no contact with the victim’s family. Meanwhile, his supporters have raised over $425,000 for his defense, while a separate fundraiser for Metcalf’s family has surpassed $350,000.
Anthony’s attorney, Mike Howard told Fox 4, “This is a tragedy all around for both families. There are two sides to every story.” Howard further discussed the bond reduction, adding, “This family needs to be able to survive. There’s been tremendous pressure. I think, at this point, living in a gated community, given everything, the safety of their younger children is very warranted. Security details and criminal defense are not cheap.”
Karmelo Anthony’s legal team maintains that he acted in self-defense during the deadly dispute with Metcalf. “Every Texan has the right to protect themselves when they genuinely fear for their life,” Howard said outside the courthouse on Monday (April 14). He continued, “There are two sides to every story. Karmelo is a 17-year-old kid, an honor student, and the captain of both his track and football teams. This is a heartbreaking situation for both families.”
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