Former Lostprophets frontman Ian Watkins, once a major figure in the Welsh rock scene, has died following an attack in prison. Authorities confirmed that the 48-year-old was assaulted by fellow inmates at HMP Wakefield, where he was serving a lengthy sentence for serious child sex offences.
Two Arrested in Connection with the Attack
According to West Yorkshire Police, two men aged 25 and 43 have been arrested on suspicion of murder following the incident. Officers were called to the prison on Saturday morning after reports of a violent assault. Despite efforts from emergency responders, Watkins was pronounced dead at the scene.
A spokesperson for the Prison Service acknowledged the incident but stated that they could not comment further while the police investigation is ongoing.
A History of Crimes and Controversy
Watkins was sentenced in 2013 to 29 years in prison, with an additional six years on licence, after being convicted of numerous child sex offences — including the attempted rape of a baby. His crimes were described by the judge as “plunging into new depths of depravity.”
During the trial, the court heard that Watkins used his fame and influence to manipulate others and commit shocking acts. He was known for a “complete lack of remorse,” according to the presiding judge.
Watkins had previously survived another attack in August 2023 while in custody, but those injuries were not life-threatening.
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Prison Violence Under Scrutiny
The attack comes less than two weeks after a report revealed that violence at HMP Wakefield had “increased markedly.” The inspection found that many prisoners, especially older men and those convicted of sexual offences, felt unsafe inside the facility.
The recent events have raised further concerns about inmate safety in one of Britain’s highest-security prisons.
From Rock Stardom to Infamy
Ian Watkins was once a celebrated musician, leading Lostprophets, one of Wales’ most successful rock bands of the early 2000s. The group released multiple chart-topping albums and sold millions of records worldwide.
However, the band disbanded in 2013 after Watkins’ arrest and conviction. His fall from grace remains one of the most disturbing scandals in British music history.