News

Lostprophets Official Statement Regarding Ian Watkins Alleged Child Sex Offences

• 20th Dec 2012

LOSTPROPHETS have made a statement via their official website regarding frontman Ian Watkins’ arrest on child sex offence charges.

Yesterday, it emerged that Watkins faces six charges including conspiracy to engage in sexual activity with two children under 13 — including one count of conspiracy to rape a one-year-old girl — and four counts relating to possession and distribution of indecent images.

The band’s statement reads: “Following charges made today against Ian Watkins, we find ourselves in a state of shock. We are learning about the details of the investigation along with you. It is a difficult time for us and our families, and we want to thank our fans for their support as we seek answers. Jamie, Lee, Luke, Mike and Stu”

Watkins appeared at Cardiff magistrates court yesterday (December 19). Defending barrister Tom Crowther said his client would plead not guilty to all charges, though a plea is not required at this point in the proceedings.

“None of these offences are admitted,” said Crowther. “He has no previous convictions and is a man of clean character.”

Two other women, who cannot be identified for legal reasons, also appeared before the court — one aged 24, who was accused of the same offences as Watkins, and another, 20, who was charged with five of the same offences but not conspiracy to rape.

All three defendants were refused bail, despite Watkins’ mother, who was sitting in the public gallery, offering her house as a surety for her son’s release. All three are due to appear at Cardiff Crown Court on December 31.

Anyone with information relating to the investigation is urged by police to get in touch. Call the Operation Globe incident room on 0800 056 0154, NSPCC on 0800 389 5347 or email mail. Overseas callers are asked to phone 00 44 207 158 0011.