Video footage presented in court revealed Ian Watkins emerging from his cell with a blood-stained T-shirt after being assaulted by a fellow inmate, according to reports.
Former Lostprophets lead singer Watkins, convicted of child sexual offenses and serving a 29-year prison sentence, was targeted and fatally wounded at HMP Wakefield, a high-security facility.
During the trial at Leeds Crown Court, it was disclosed that inmate Rico Gedel entered Watkins’ cell shortly after it was opened in the morning on October 11 the previous year and attacked him with a handmade knife, inflicting three wounds to his head and neck. Gedel then allegedly passed the weapon to another inmate, Samuel Dodsworth, who disposed of it in a bin.
Jurors viewed footage showing Watkins, the former rock star, with blood evident on his T-shirt collar.
Witnesses, two workmen conducting maintenance work in the prison, noticed Watkins holding his hand to his neck, indicating a wound. They alerted prison officers who rushed to Watkins’ cell where he was found injured and bleeding.
Prosecutors stated that the attack, lasting only 20 seconds, left Gedel in a cheerful mood when apprehended by prison officers, allegedly making a provocative comment as he passed Watkins receiving medical attention.
Allegedly motivated by jealousy towards sex offenders, Gedel expressed disdain for sharing a wing with them at HMP Wakefield, where segregation was not enforced.
Gedel, initially identified as Rashid Gedel by authorities, and Dodsworth both deny charges of murder and possession of a makeshift prison knife. Prosecutors assert that the assault was a joint effort, with Dodsworth being complicit in the planned attack.
Addressing the jury, Tom Storey KC described Watkins as a highly notorious inmate who had received threatening notes the day before his death, hinting at underlying tensions within the prison environment.
The court heard that Gedel had been relocated to the same wing as Watkins and Dodsworth shortly before the incident, raising suspicions of premeditation. On the fateful morning, while officers were unlocking cells, Gedel and Dodsworth were observed engaging in suspicious activities, potentially signaling the impending attack.
CCTV footage captured Gedel entering Watkins’ cell and swiftly exiting, passing an object to Dodsworth who concealed it in his clothing. Following the assault, Watkins identified Gedel as the assailant before collapsing and succumbing to his injuries.
As Gedel was being apprehended, he reportedly made provocative statements to officers and exhibited a composed demeanor, leading to further scrutiny of his behavior.
The trial is ongoing as the court examines evidence and testimonies related to the tragic incident.
