Judge Angela Tucker is now under increased security protection after receiving threats for her decision to lower the bail of Karmelo Anthony, the 17-year-old accused of fatally stabbing fellow student Austin Metcalf during a dispute at a high school track meet earlier this month.
According to the Collin County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO), the threats were reported by both court staff and concerned citizens following Tucker’s controversial move on Monday, where she reduced Anthony’s bond from $1 million to $250,000.
The sheriff’s office confirmed that investigators and the FBI are now involved, actively probing the source and nature of the threatening remarks directed at Judge Tucker. Additionally, authorities are investigating whether any personal or private information about the judge — such as her home address or phone number — has been unlawfully released to the public.
“If the individual responsible is identified,” the CCSO stated, “charges could include Unlawful Disclosure of a Residence Address or Telephone Number and Obstruction or Retaliation.”
Judge Tucker Turns Social Media Private Amid Backlash
While the exact contents of the threats have not been disclosed, Judge Tucker has since made her X (formerly Twitter) account private, likely in response to the online backlash. Her ruling — which went against prosecutors’ requests to keep the original $1 million bail — has sparked outrage in the community and on social media platforms.
Karmelo Anthony’s Case: What Led to the Bail Reduction?
Karmelo Anthony, a high school student, is charged with first-degree felony murder after allegedly stabbing 17-year-old Austin Metcalf on April 2 during an argument over seating arrangements at a Frisco-area school event.
Anthony’s legal team argued that the $1 million bond was excessive, citing no prior criminal history and claiming he was not a flight risk. Judge Tucker agreed to reduce the bond but imposed strict conditions:
- Anthony must wear an ankle monitor
- He is under home confinement
Despite the uproar, Anthony was released after making bail and did not address the media. His next court appearance has not yet been announced.
FBI Joins Investigation as Public Scrutiny Mounts
The situation has drawn widespread attention across Texas and beyond. The FBI’s involvement indicates the seriousness of the threats and the growing concerns over judicial safety in high-profile criminal cases.
As of now, Blame or accountability for the release of Judge Tucker’s private info has not been assigned, but law enforcement is treating it as a potential criminal offense.
