Stefon Diggs' on-and-off partner Cardi B has reportedly voiced her strong disapproval of Karmelo Anthony's 35-year prison sentence for fatally stabbing 17-year-old Austin Metcalf. The incident occurred during a track meet in Frisco, Texas, in April 2025.
The Incident
According to The Guardian's Adria R Walker, Karmelo Anthony and Austin Metcalf, both 17 at the time, met during a track meet at the Frisco Independent School District. A rain shower caused confusion, with some athletes staying on the field and others seeking shelter. Centennial High School, which Karmelo attended, did not have a tent, so he sought shelter in Memorial High School's tent. A confrontation ensued, resulting in Karmelo stabbing Austin, who was pronounced dead shortly after arriving at a local hospital.
Defense vs. Prosecution
Karmelo's defense team argued that he acted in self-defense after being confronted by Memorial High School team members. They noted a significant height and weight difference: Austin and his twin brother were both about 6-foot-1 and 213 pounds, while Karmelo is 5-foot-8 and about 130 pounds. The defense claimed Karmelo reacted out of fear and chaos. However, the prosecutor described the stabbing as a sneak, surprise attack and alleged that Karmelo threatened Austin by saying, Touch me and find out.
Video evidence suggested the incident was one-on-one, with others not turning on Karmelo. A Texas law allowed Karmelo to be tried as an adult despite being a minor at the time.
Jury Selection and Verdict
The trial took place in Collin County, Texas. The Guardian reported that none of the 12 jurors or 6 alternates were Black. Karmelo is Black, while Austin was white. After a week-long trial, the jury delivered a verdict of 35 years in prison for Karmelo, who is now 19.
Cardi B's Reaction
Reacting to the verdict, Cardi B wrote on X: Wow! Just freak wow! DISGUSTING… This is not justice, this is trying to make an example!!! Her post garnered over 10 million views. The Bodak Yellow singer also reposted several posts about Karmelo, including one stating: Almost 4 years ago, Karmelo Anthony saved someone's life, don't allow these trolls or mainstream media to tell you otherwise. They are trying to do character assassination against his image, like the dominant society always does.
This case has sparked widespread debate about racial bias in the justice system, particularly given the all-white jury and the severity of the sentence for a minor.
