Rico Gedel, who is accused of murdering former Welsh singer-songwriter Ian Watkins at HMP Wakefield, allegedly bragged about his “fame” after the fatal prison attack, jurors at Leeds Crown Court heard.According to prosecutors, Goedel stabbed Watkins with a homemade blade in his cell at the high-security men’s prison on Oct. 11, causing serious injuries to his head and neck. Medical staff attempted to rescue Watkins and rushed to the scene after prison officials noticed blood on Watkins’ clothing.Prosecutor Tom Storey KC told jurors Gedel carried out the attack shortly after prisoners in B Wing were released from their cells at about 9am. CCTV footage shown in court purportedly captured Goedel entering Watkins’ cell and leaving about 20 seconds later.Prosecutors said Goedel later handed the improvised weapon to inmate Samuel Dodsworth, who allegedly hid it under his clothing. Prosecutors argued the two planned the attack together, although Goedel is accused of stabbing himself. Both men face murder and possession of a weapon in prison charges.Jurors were also told that Goedel appeared “high energy” after his arrest. According to prosecutors, he told prison guards escorting him away that they were “probably talking to someone famous.” Storey further claimed that Goedel yelled, “Sleep well, Watkins boy,” as he passed the area where medical personnel were trying to save the victim.Watkins was serving a 29-year sentence for child sex crimes at the time of his death. Prosecutors described him as a high-profile inmate who had previously faced threats from other inmates. The court also heard allegations that Goedel was unhappy with what he believed to be preferential treatment for sex offenders in prison.Witnesses described chaotic scenes after the attack. Prison staff intervened after two maintenance staff reportedly saw Watkins briefly emerging from his cell wearing a blood-stained T-shirt. Officers attempted first aid, including applying pressure to a deep wound on his neck, while requesting medical assistance.Watkins later fell unconscious on the bed. Paramedics performed CPR but he was pronounced dead shortly after 10.15am.The prosecutor also told the court that Goedel was transferred to the same prison as Watkins and Dodsworth the day before the incident and was placed in a cell next to Watkins before the incident.
