Lostprophets Singer Ian Watkins Receives Court Date for Child Sex Offenses
Lostprophets singer Ian Watkins, who has been pinned with over 20 child sex crimes charges, has learned when his trial will begin.
Watkins and two female accomplices were arrested in December 2012 after a police investigation found some incredibly disturbing information allegedly leading to the trio. The charges brought upon Watkins include allegations of raping an infant; conspiracy to sexually assault another small child; possession and distribution of child pornography; and the possession of "extreme animal pornography."
Watkins pleaded "not guilty" to all charges in a Cardiff, Wales, court hearing on June 3. A trial date wasn't set immediately after the singer's plea, although Watkins' trial was expected to begin in late 2013. As reported by BBC, Watkins' trial will begin Nov. 25. The singer was denied bail shortly after his initial arrest, so the Lostprophets frontman will remain in police custody for the time being. The trial is estimated to take three or four weeks before a jury will render a verdict.
Watkins recently released the following statement thanking his loved ones for all their support:
I want to thank my family, friends and all the fans for the continued support throughout this whole ordeal. Your support gives my strength. I deny all the allegations made against me and I will continue to fight to clear my name.
Stay tuned for further updates on the trial of Ian Watkins.