A prisoner accused of murdering disgraced Lostprophets singer Ian Watkins told guards they 'could be talking to someone famous' after stabbing him in the head and neck, a court has heard. Rico Gedel, 25, carried out the attack at HMP Wakefield on 11 October, using a homemade knife, before handing the weapon to fellow inmate Samuel Dodsworth, 44, who disposed of it, Leeds Crown Court was told.
The attack lasted about 20 seconds, with Dodsworth acting as a lookout, prosecutor Tom Storey KC said. Watkins, serving a 29-year sentence for child sexual offences, was attacked moments after his cell door was opened. When asked after the attack who was responsible, Gedel replied 'God'. In his final moments, Watkins told officers 'that little black fella' had attacked him.
Gedel, described by prison officers as 'perky' after the stabbing, allegedly said 'have a good night's sleep Watkins lad' as he was led past the cell where the former singer was being treated. He told police he was jealous of 'nonce prisoners' because they 'got treated like royalty' and found it disgusting to share a wing with sex offenders at HMP Wakefield, often called 'monster mansion'.
Prosecutors say the attack was a joint offence, though carried out by one man. Gedel had been moved into the same wing as Watkins and Dodsworth the day before, and placed in the cell next to Watkins. CCTV showed Gedel entering Watkins' cell just before 9.20am and leaving 20 seconds later, then passing an item to Dodsworth, who put it in his pocket.
Watkins emerged briefly with blood visible on his T-shirt. Workmen signalled for help, and officers applied pressure to a large wound on his neck. He collapsed and lost consciousness, and was declared dead just before 10.15am. Both Gedel and Dodsworth deny murder and possession of a makeshift knife in prison. The trial continues.
