Former Lostprophets Singer Ian Watkins Placed On Suicide Watch
Tuesday, 13 August 2013
Written by Elliott Batte
Former Lostprophets frontman Ian Watkins has reportedly been placed on suicide watch following his arrest for sex offences against children.
Watkins is set to stand trial for a series of charges, including two counts of raping a baby, one count of conspiracy to rape a one-year-old baby, one count of conspiracy to sexually assault a child and producing, possessing, and distributing indecent images of children, in November.
The Independent reports that the singer appeared via video link at Cardiff Crown Court on August 12, where his defence barrister - Sally O'Neill - revealed that psychologists believe he should be moved from Bridgend's Parc Prison to a psychiatric hospital and given anti-psychotic 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."
Judge Eleri Rees has set a November 25 date for the trial to begin, and informed Watkins that it could potentially last up to four weeks. Two women involved in the case will also stand trial. In total, Watkins faces 24 separate charges. In a statement released earlier this year he promised to "fight to the bitter end":
“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.”
Stick with Stereoboard to stay up-to-date on the story - we’ll fill you in on what happens as the case unfolds.
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