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Texas judge removed as new-trial motion goes to Chitty

8/21/2026

50 9 Full Breakdown

Summary

Judge Roach Removed

Texas Judge John Roach was removed on August 19, 2026 as Karmelo Anthony seeks a new trial.
Veteran Judge Michael Chitty was assigned to hear the retrial motion on August 20, 2026.
Defense argues Roach’s interview endorsing the jury “got it right” shows possible bias.
Judge Chitty must rule on the new-trial request by Monday under Texas law.

Summary

Judge Roach Upholds

Judge Roach upheld his pre-trial gag order, barring electronics and limiting public access at the new-trial hearing.
Approximately 75 to 100 people gathered outside the Collin County courthouse, some displaying Black Panther symbols.
Only nine media seats were inside, so a live feed was set up for an overflow room.

History

Historical Context

After the Senate convicted Judge Alcee Hastings in 1989—69 votes to 26, making him the sixth federal judge removed—their oversight of the judiciary intensified. The 2026 removal of Texas Judge John Roach and a gag order echo that legacy, prompting state legislatures to tighten conduct rules and expand media access for high-profile trials.

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Judge Roach Removed

Texas Judge John Roach was removed on August 19, 2026 as Karmelo Anthony seeks a new trial.
Veteran Judge Michael Chitty was assigned to hear the retrial motion on August 20, 2026.
Defense argues Roach’s interview endorsing the jury “got it right” shows possible bias.
Judge Chitty must rule on the new-trial request by Monday under Texas law.

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