Angela Tucker, an African American district judge in Collin County, Texas, is facing threats and heightened public scrutiny after she reduced the bail of Karmelo Anthony, a 17-year-old Black teen accused of fatally stabbing another student at a high school track meet. Tucker lowered Anthony’s bail from $1 million to $250,000, allowing him to be released under house arrest—a move that has sparked outrage, debate, and threats against her safety.
The Collin County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that both it and the FBI are investigating threats made against Tucker, reportedly from people upset by her decision. Some of these individuals also posted her personal information online, prompting investigators to look into potential charges for unlawful disclosure and retaliation. As a result, Tucker set her social media accounts to private shortly after the hearing, citing safety concerns.
Much of the anger has been fueled by what many are calling a racial double standard in the justice system. Critics point out that white suspects accused of serious crimes have often received lower bail, lighter sentences, or even acquittals, while Black defendants, like Anthony, are frequently treated more harshly. This latest case has brought renewed attention to disparities in how the U.S. legal system handles race and crime.
Anthony is accused of killing 17-year-old Austin Metcalf, who is white, who died in his twin brother’s arms after being stabbed in the heart during a confrontation at a Frisco track meet. According to the arrest affidavit, Metcalf told Anthony to move from another team’s tent, which escalated into a fatal altercation. Anthony reportedly reached into his bag, warned Metcalf not to touch him, and then stabbed him after being grabbed.
While Anthony’s release enraged many, others have come to his defense. Supporters have raised more than $425,000 for his legal expenses. His father said the family is now planning to move after receiving racist threats and seeing disturbing images shared online. Meanwhile, prosecutors have stated that Anthony, as a minor, will not face the death penalty or life in prison if convicted.
Anthony was described by his attorneys as a high school senior, a team captain in football and track, and a part-time employee at two local businesses. Metcalf, also a standout athlete, had aspirations of playing college football. The case continues to divide the Frisco community, with online misinformation and racial tensions inflaming an already tragic situation.
