Overview
- The trial moved into jury selection on Monday as lawyers work to seat 12 jurors and six alternates before opening statements can begin.
- Anthony is charged with first-degree murder for the April 2, 2025, stabbing of 17-year-old Austin Metcalf and has pleaded not guilty while asserting he acted in self-defense.
- Police arrest records quote Anthony admitting the killing and saying he was protecting himself, evidence prosecutors plan to challenge with witness testimony and other material.
- Court officials have imposed a gag order, banned phones and recordings in the courtroom, restricted media access, and increased security after widespread online attention and protests outside the courthouse.
- The case has drawn large donations to Anthony’s legal fund and heated public debate over race and misinformation, a dynamic that officials say could complicate jury selection and the trial’s administration.