Story perspectives

Judge Hears Karmelo Anthony’s New-Trial Bid, Rules by 2026

8/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Retired Texas Judge Michael Chitty is hearing Karmelo Anthony’s new-trial request and must rule by August 24, 2026.
Sid Harle recused Roach, saying his “jurors got it right” comment could appear biased.
Defense says a “gentleman’s agreement” to hide character evidence was breached, blocking Anthony’s testimony.
Prosecutor Bill Wirske says the agreement was mutual and did not cover Anthony’s testimony.

History

Historical Context

In 1973, Judge John Sirica ordered the release of the Watergate tapes, exposing President Richard Nixon’s involvement and prompting a national scandal. Sirica’s ruling forced the Department of Justice to review over 2,000 pages of transcripts, while the Washington Post published 18 investigative stories. Today's Texas case mirrors Sirica’s fight, as retired Judge Michael Chitty must decide Karmelo Anthony’s new-trial request amid disputes over a gentleman’s evidence agreement. The precedent suggests that courts will scrutinize procedural breaches, potentially reshaping evidentiary standards and prompting appellate reviews across the nation.

1 of 2

Story summary

Retired Texas Judge Michael Chitty is hearing Karmelo Anthony’s new-trial request and must rule by August 24, 2026.
Sid Harle recused Roach, saying his “jurors got it right” comment could appear biased.
Defense says a “gentleman’s agreement” to hide character evidence was breached, blocking Anthony’s testimony.
Prosecutor Bill Wirske says the agreement was mutual and did not cover Anthony’s testimony.

1 / 2