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Legal
Police in Ian Watkins child abuse case investigated
By Andy Malt | Published on Friday 8 February 2013
The Independent Police Complaints Commission is investigating whether South Wales Police acted quickly enough to arrest Lostprophets frontman Ian Watkins over child sexual abuse claims. The BBC reports that the police force referred itself for investigation.
IPCC commissioner for Wales Tom Davies told the BBC: “We received a referral from South Wales Police on 25 Jan 2013 relating to Ian Watkins. Following a thorough assessment I have decided that we will carry out an independent investigation. Our investigation will determine whether or not South Wales Police failed to take appropriate and timely action in relation to information they were in receipt of in advance of Mr Watkins subsequent arrest. We are aware of four forces having provided South Wales Police with information but, as criminal proceedings are active, it would be inappropriate to publish further information at this time”.
As previously reported, Watkins was arrested in December, accused of sexual offences against children, including conspiracy to rape a baby. He is also accused of possessing, making and distributing indecent images, and possessing “extreme” animal pornography. The charges relate to alleged crimes committed between May and December last year. He is currently being held in custody pending a court appearance next month.
