More than $500k raised for legal defense for teen accused of stabbing another teen

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The family of Karmelo Anthony, a Texas teenager accused of fatally stabbing another boy, says it has raised more than $500,000 for his legal defense and security amid threats they say they’re facing.

Anthony, 17, was charged with murder after police allege he stabbed 17-year-old Austin Metcalf during an altercation at a Texas high school track meet on April 2.

Metcalf reportedly died in his twin brother’s arms.

Karmelo Anthony legal defense raises more than $500,000

The Anthony family says in an online fundraiser that they and their teen son have received “escalating threats” since the alleged stabbing. The suspect’s family has raised more than $500,000.

“While legal defense is a critical part of this journey, we want to make it clear that this fund is not solely dedicated to legal expenses,” the Anthony family says in the online fundraiser.

Security

“The funds raised will also support a range of urgent and necessary needs that have emerged as a result of this situation, including — but not limited to — the safe relocation of the Anthony family due to escalating threats to their safety and well-being, as well as basic living costs, transportation, counseling, and other security measures,” the post continues.

Anthony was released on $250,000 bond earlier this month, after having been lowered from $1,000,000.

Anthony’s mother, Karla Hayes, said at the press conference that she and her family have received a number of threats since the alleged murder.

“Whatever you think what happened between Karmelo and the Metcalf boys, my three younger children, my husband and I didn’t do anything to deserve to be threatened, harassed and lied about,” Hayes said. “The lies and false accusations that have been said about us, especially over the past week, has been overwhelming. The lies and their amplification put my family in danger.

She also addressed the Metcalf family, saying: “To the family who experienced the loss, my heart truly goes out to you.”

Alleged incident at the track meet

Police said witnesses reportedly saw Metcalf tell Anthony he had to move from under a tent meant for another school during the track meet, WFAA reported.

One witness told police that after being told to move, Anthony reached inside his bag and told Metcalf, “Touch me and see what happens.”

The witness said Metcalf touched Anthony, then allegedly grabbed him. Anthony then allegedly stabbed Metcalf once in the chest before running away.

Anthony’s family has maintained “the narrative being spread is false, unjust, and harmful.”

Anthony is currently on house arrest.