Black Judge Who Reduced Karmelo Anthony’s Bail Receives Death Threats, Gets Added Security

Nationwide — Angela Tucker, an African American district choose in Collin County, Texas, is dealing with threats and heightened public scrutiny after she lowered the bail of Karmelo Anthony, a 17-year-old Black teen accused of fatally stabbing one other scholar at a highschool observe meet. Tucker lowered Anthony’s bail from $1 million to $250,000 on Monday, permitting him to be launched underneath home arrest—a transfer that has sparked outrage, debate, and threats in opposition to her security.

Based on The Every day Mail, the Collin County Sheriff’s Workplace confirmed that each it and the FBI are investigating threats made in opposition to Tucker, reportedly from folks upset by her determination. A few of these people additionally posted her private info on-line, prompting investigators to look into potential costs for illegal disclosure and retaliation. Consequently, Tucker set her social media accounts to non-public shortly after the listening to, citing security considerations.

A lot of the anger has been fueled by what many are calling a racial double commonplace within the justice system. Critics level out that white suspects accused of significant crimes have usually acquired decrease bail, lighter sentences, and even acquittals, whereas Black defendants, like Anthony, are steadily handled extra harshly. This newest case has introduced renewed consideration to disparities in how the U.S. authorized system handles race and crime.

Anthony is accused of killing 17-year-old Austin Metcalf, who’s white, who died in his twin brother’s arms after being stabbed within the coronary heart throughout a confrontation at a Frisco observe meet. Based on the arrest affidavit, Metcalf instructed Anthony to maneuver from one other workforce’s tent, which escalated right into a deadly altercation. Anthony reportedly reached into his bag, warned Metcalf to not contact him, after which stabbed him after being grabbed.

Whereas Anthony’s launch enraged many, others have come to his protection. Supporters have raised greater than $425,000 for his authorized bills. His father stated the household is now planning to maneuver after receiving racist threats and seeing disturbing photos shared on-line. In the meantime, prosecutors have said that Anthony, as a minor, won’t face the demise penalty or life in jail if convicted.

Anthony was described by his attorneys as a highschool senior, a workforce captain in soccer and observe, and a part-time worker at two native companies. Metcalf, additionally a standout athlete, had aspirations of taking part in faculty soccer. The case continues to divide the Frisco neighborhood, with on-line misinformation and racial tensions inflaming an already tragic scenario.