New details and troubling backgrounds for Austin Metcalf and Karmelo Anthony revealed in retrial hearing

Key Points:

• Both prosecutors and defense attorneys in the Karmelo Anthony murder case are revealing violent backgrounds of Anthony and victim Austin Metcalf during a new trial hearing, breaking a previous agreement to keep these details from the jury.
• Austin Metcalf's history includes juvenile probation for racist graffiti, multiple bullying and assault allegations, use of racial slurs, school suspensions, and counseling for anger issues, as detailed in court documents.
• Karmelo Anthony's background revealed by prosecutors shows a pattern of violent behavior, including text messages about fighting, threats, carrying weapons, stalking his girlfriend, and involvement in theft and drug-related activities.
• Texts and evidence also expose disturbing racial slurs and violent threats made by Anthony, including threats to murder his girlfriend and references to racial hatred, supported by police reports, school records, and phone data.
• The hearing, which began with defense claims that court efforts hindered a fair trial for Anthony, is ongoing with the defense's first witness, trial attorney Toby Shook, expected to testify next.