The murd3r case against Karmelo Anthony continues to stir public scrutiny, and now, financial questions are fueling the conversation.

In a new Facebook post, Karmelo’s father, Drew Anthony, revealed that his son has officially requested a court-appointed lawyer, citing financial hardship. The request comes despite the family previously raising over half a million dollars through public donations and now seeking to raise $1.4 million.

“Today, we received the official news that the Collin County District Attorney has indicted our son—your nephew, your friend, your neighbor,” Drew wrote.

A grand jury indicted 17-year-old Karmelo on one count of first-degree murd3r for fatally stabbing Austin Metcalf at a Frisco, Texas, track meet.

Family Pushed To The Edge

Karmelo Anthony (Photo via X)
Karmelo once had private legal representation, but his father said the family could no longer sustain those costs. Now, he’s relying on the court system for a public defender as the case moves closer to trial. The shift has raised eyebrows, especially after the family raised more than $500,000 through crowdfunding platforms. Their most recent fundraising goal is $1.4 million.

Critics online have questioned where the money has gone. In response, the Anthony family has explained that the donations have supported various emergency expenses. From legal fees to trauma counseling, relocation after threats, transportation to court, and basic living costs. “These funds are being used to cover essential and urgent needs,” Drew wrote, stressing that their situation extends beyond the courtroom.

Officials released Karmelo from the Collin County jail after the court reduced his bond. However, prosecutors clarified that because he was 17 at the time of the incident, he won’t face the death penalty. “The Supreme Court has said… you can’t even get them life without parole,” Collin County District Attorney Greg Willis told Fox News Digital.

Meanwhile, the family of Austin Metcalf continues to process their own grief. Jeff Metcalf, Austin’s father, told TMZ that he would have supported the death penalty had Karmelo been 18 at the time. “It’s the law, unfortunately,” he said, noting that the timing changed everything.

As both families brace for what lies ahead, the Anthonys say the legal and emotional toll has only grown. With bills rising and public pressure mounting, they’re asking for continued support to keep fighting on multiple fronts.