Karmelo Anthony Conviction: WHO Is Valeria Perez? GF Shows Support After Austin Metcalf Murder Verdict

Karmelo Anthony Conviction: The case surrounding the killing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf continues to draw national attention following Karmelo Anthony's conviction. Anthony, who was found guilty of murder and sentenced to 35 years in prison, had maintained that he acted in self-defense during the fatal confrontation at a high school track meet in Frisco, Texas, in April 2025.

Karmelo Anthony Case: Jasmine Crockett's Defense Statement Shocks Internet

Amid the ongoing public reaction, Democratic Representative Jasmine Crockett found herself at the center of controversy after discussing the case on her podcast, Clock It with Crockett. Her comments about the weapon involved and the circumstances leading up to the stabbing quickly went viral online.

While analyzing the case, Crockett questioned perceptions surrounding the knife used in the incident, saying, "Well, I would argue the size of it alone, you wouldn't even think it's a deadly weapon." She also spoke hypothetically about self-defense situations, adding, "If a 300-pound man is beating me... I'm not limited to fists." The remarks triggered strong reactions across social media, with critics and supporters debating her perspective.

Karmelo Anthony Girlfriend Name, Photo: Who Is Valeria Perez?

Before Anthony's trial made national headlines, very little was publicly known about Valeria Perez. However, she recently found herself in the spotlight after sharing a heartfelt message of support for Anthony following his sentencing.

Taking to TikTok, Perez posted a series of photos featuring the two together and expressed her unwavering support. Referring to Anthony as her "sweet boy," she wrote, "Hold your head high, my sweet boy. You're not alone, we're fighting for you, always. I love you more than words."

Her emotional post quickly gained traction online, with many users discussing her continued support for Anthony despite his prison sentence.

Meanwhile, Anthony's parents have remained vocal about their belief that the legal process was unfair. During an interview with host Mimi Brown, both Kayla and Drew Anthony expressed disappointment with the outcome. When asked whether they felt the trial had been fair, they responded, "Absolutely not."

Kayla Anthony further stated, "We will not stop fighting for justice for my son." Drew Anthony also reflected on decisions made during the legal proceedings, saying, "I wish I would have been rebellious. I was told don't talk to this person. I felt like it was just a setup. Since they told us go get white attorneys."

Karmelo Anthony Conviction: Austin Metcalf's Dad Statement

Following the verdict, Austin Metcalf's father, Jeff Metcalf, opened up about the emotional impact of the trial and the sense of closure he felt after the jury's decision. Speaking to CBS News Texas, he reflected on the difficult journey his family has endured since losing his son.

"A lie is temporary, but the truth lasts forever," Jeff said while discussing the outcome of the case.

He also described the overwhelming relief he experienced the morning after the verdict was delivered.

"When I woke up this morning, it was a very different feeling," he said. "When I woke up, I felt like one million pounds had been lifted off my shoulders. This morning was the first day I woke up with a feeling of peace, comfort, and tranquility that I haven't experienced in 14 months. And I felt awesome."