Karmelo Anthony’s family is pushing back after viral claims spread online accusing them of using donated crowdfunding money to buy a home. The accusations have added another layer of controversy to the already divided case, especially now that a new legal filing describes Anthony as “destitute and penniless” as he begins the appeals process.
Anthony, 19, was convicted of murder in the 2025 stabbing death of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf during a high school track meet in Frisco, Texas. He was sentenced to 35 years in prison after jurors rejected his claim that he acted in self-defense during the confrontation.
After the verdict and sentence, attention quickly returned to the GiveSendGo campaign created by Anthony’s mother, Kayla Hayes, shortly after his arrest. The fundraiser, titled “Help Karmelo Official Fund,” raised more than $600,000 and was described as support for legal defense, relocation, and basic family needs.
Online critics have repeatedly claimed that the family used the money to buy a house or other personal assets. But fact-checking reports have disputed those allegations, saying there is no evidence that the fundraiser money was used to purchase property. Hayes has also denied the claims, calling them completely false.
The campaign itself has still drawn heavy scrutiny because of the amount of money raised and the public attention surrounding the case. Reports say GiveSendGo confirmed the fundraiser passed $630,000 before it was closed after Anthony’s conviction, and that the funds had already been released over the past year.
According to the stated purpose of the campaign, the money was meant to help cover legal costs, safe relocation, transportation, counseling, and other expenses connected to threats and safety concerns. Reports also said Anthony’s family left their Frisco home after the case became nationally known.
But the debate grew even more complicated after Anthony’s appeal filing reportedly described him as a “penniless, destitute, and indigent person.” The filing argued that he cannot afford legal counsel for his appeal, which has raised new questions about how the fundraiser money was used and whether it should affect his request for court-appointed representation.
Supporters of Anthony’s family argue that money raised for legal defense and family safety does not necessarily mean Anthony personally has access to funds while in prison. Critics, however, say the large fundraising total makes the claim of financial hardship difficult to understand without more explanation.
The controversy has also drawn comparisons to Austin Metcalf’s family, which had a separate GoFundMe campaign that raised nearly $600,000 after his death. Both families have received major public financial support, showing how deeply the case captured national attention and divided public opinion.
Now, as Anthony’s appeal moves forward, the questions surrounding the GiveSendGo money continue to follow his family. The conviction and sentence remain in place, but the debate over fundraising, financial hardship, and public trust has become another unresolved part of a case that remains emotional, complicated, and heavily watched.
