One of the individuals facing trial for the homicide of Ian Watkins, the disgraced former lead singer of Lostprophets, informed the jury that he uttered the words “this is what paedophiles deserve” as he carried out the act of cutting Watkins’ throat. Watkins, aged 48, passed away following the assault in October at HMP Wakefield, where he was incarcerated for child sexual offenses serving a 29-year sentence.
Rico Gedel, 25, is currently standing trial at Leeds Crown Court for murder alongside Samuel Dodsworth, aged 43. Gedel stated in court that Dodsworth allegedly provided him with the makeshift weapon used in the attack, as revealed during the proceedings. Testifying on Wednesday, Gedel detailed the events of October 11 last year when he stabbed and sliced Watkins, expressing his belief that he was manipulated into the act due to his repeated expressions of revulsion towards sex offenders to prison staff, whom he claimed were aware of his intentions.
Gedel admitted that he felt compelled to target a sex offender to prompt a transfer to segregation, citing a prior conversation with a probation worker about his intentions. Describing his abhorrence for sexual offenders, Gedel emphasized the lasting trauma inflicted on victims, stating that the impact of sexual assault endures indefinitely.
The court learned that Gedel had been convicted of murder in 2023, with an unsuccessful appeal subsequently lodged at the Court of Appeal. He disclosed his experiences across various prisons, including HMP Belmarsh, HMP Full Sutton, and HMP Wakefield, highlighting the bleak reality of wrongful imprisonment and the loss of hope for the future.
Reflecting on his prison encounters marked by violence, Gedel explained his perceived need for self-defense through weapon possession in the volatile environment of Belmarsh. Recalling his interactions with Watkins, Gedel recounted previous confrontations and verbal exchanges, shedding light on their strained relationship.
Gedel narrated the events leading up to the fatal encounter, detailing the moments before the attack and the involvement of Dodsworth in providing the weapon. He shared his internal struggle and impulsive decision-making process, underscoring the conflicting emotions that influenced his actions.
Describing the assault on Watkins, Gedel recounted the sequence of events, including the verbal exchange and the infliction of injuries. Despite acknowledging his responsibility for the act, Gedel expressed his belief that prison staff were complicit in the situation, attributing a share of the blame to them. The trial is ongoing as further details emerge from the proceedings.
