Anthony Karmelo faces a murder charge and, if convicted, could be sentenced to five to 99 years in prison under Texas law.

But on Monday, Collin County Judge Angela Tucker reduced the bond for 17-year-old Karmelo from $1 million to $250,000, a decision that has sparked a wave of public reaction and reignited emotions.

The decision was met with contrasting emotions in the courtroom. Austin’s mother, Meghan Metcalf, bowed her head and wept. On the opposite side sat about ten of Anthony’s supporters, including family and friends.

Judge Tucker imposed strict conditions after reducing the bond: Anthony is now under house arrest, must wear an ankle monitor, cannot travel without court approval, and must remain accompanied by an adult at all times. He is prohibited from contacting the Metcalf family, including through social media.

Defense attorney Mike Howard called the ruling “fair