Texas judge puts STRICT LIMITS on press in courtroom where Karmelo Anthony is on trial for brutal slaying of Austin Metcalf

Collin County Judge John Roach Jr. signed an order on Friday restricting media access, enhancing security measures, and outlining courtroom conduct requirements ahead of the trial. The judge said the measures are necessary to protect those involved in the proceedings, such as jurors and witnesses, as well as to ensure the defendant has a fair trial.

In the order, Roach cited Sheppard v. Maxwell, which addresses the impact of media coverage on a right to a fair trial. According to CBS News, under the rules the courtroom will open at 8:20 am, with staggered entry beginning at 8:30 am for media, 8:40 am for family members, and 8:50 am for the general public. Doors will close at 9 am, and no entry will be permitted until recess.

Only nine media members will be permitted inside the courtroom at one time. Photography, video recording, and livestreaming are all prohibited, and no images or recordings may be taken of witnesses, prospective witnesses, jurors, or potential jurors. Media interviews inside the courtroom are also banned, and interviews with trial participants may only take place after the trial concludes.

The order also enforces strict courtroom decorum, including prohibiting reactions, talking, or distractions, such as signs or other demonstrative materials. Attendees will be required to undergo security screening. Trial exhibits will not be released until after the trial concludes.

The rules will be enforced by the Collin County Sheriff’s Office and are subject to change. Violations could result in removal, loss of media credentials, or contempt sanctions.

The trial is set to begin on June 1, and centers on 17-year-old Karmelo Anthony, who is accused of fatally stabbing fellow student Austin Metcalf at a high school track meet held at a Frisco Independent School District Stadium. According to the arrest report, the altercation began when Metcalf told Anthony to move from under a team tent. Anthony allegedly responded by reaching into his bag and saying, “Touch me and see what happens.” Metcalf grabbed Anthony to move him, at which point Anthony allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed him in the chest.

Police said Anthony admitted to an officer at the scene that he carried out the stabbing, but argued he acted in self-defense.

Anthony will be tried as an adult, as Texas’ criminal justice system prosecutes 17-year-olds as adults. If convicted, he faces a potential sentence of 5 to 99 years.