The jury in the trial of two men accused of murdering former Lostprophets singer Ian Watkins has been discharged for legal reasons, with a retrial ordered. Mr Justice Hilliard told jurors at Leeds Crown Court on Friday: 'Very reluctantly, I’m going to discharge you and the case will have to be retried.'
The defendants, Rico Gedel, 25, and Samuel Dodsworth, 44, both denied murdering Watkins and possessing a makeshift knife in prison. Watkins was serving a 29-year sentence for child sexual offences at HMP Wakefield when he was stabbed.
Prosecutors alleged that Gedel used a homemade weapon to attack Watkins in his cell, then handed the knife to Dodsworth, who disposed of it in a bin. They argued both men were jointly responsible, with Dodsworth aware of the planned attack. Dodsworth denied involvement, saying he panicked after being handed the knife.
Gedel told the court he disliked being housed with sex offenders and chose Watkins due to 'proximity', as they were neighbours. He admitted 'part of him' wanted to kill Watkins but did not formally accept guilt. The attack occurred shortly after cells were unlocked.
The judge described the need for a retrial as 'disappointing'. The case will be listed for a later date, leaving the allegations unresolved.
