Ian Watkins, the lead singer of the Welsh rock act, Lostprophets , who was accused of 23 sexual offences including raping a bay, is currently on suicide watch ahead of his trial in November.
Watkins’ trial is set to being on November 25, and it is expected to last a month, and the musician, who has denied the charges, appeared at a hearing at Cardiff Crown Court on August 12, but only via video link.
Sally O’Neill , Watkins’ barrister, informed the court though that Watkins is currently on suicide watch, and she revealed that a clinical psychologist believes he should be moved to a psychiatric hospital, and be prescribed medication.
O’Neill told the court, “He has been seen by a clinical psychologist and she believes he should be receiving anti-psychotic medication. She wants him to be taken to a secure hospital for assessment and treatment. He is on suicide watch five times an hour.”
Watkins has been charged with these atrocities alongside two other female co-defendants. The 20-year-old female has admitted to touching a child and also distributing indecent images of the incident, whilst the 24-year-old, like Watkins, denies every charge that she has been accused of.
In March, Watkins released a statement vowing to clear his name. It read, “Mr Watkins furiously denies all of the charges and allegations made. He intends to fight to the bitter end to clear his name. He wishes to thank the fans, family, and friends for the constant love and support they have given and continue to give throughout this testing time.”
At the same time, Lostprophets wrote on their website, “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.”