Warning: This article contains discussion of child sex abuse which some readers may find distressing
The spouse of Lee Gaze, a former guitarist for the band Lostprophets, has come forward with remarks following the passing of Ian Watkins, a convicted pedophile.
Watkins was found dead in his cell at HMP Wakefield on Saturday morning (September 11). Reports indicate his throat was slashed after inmates were let out of their cells.
Despite the best efforts of first responders, Watkins was declared dead at the location.
Rashid Gedel, 25, and Samuel Dodsworth, 43, have both been accused of murdering Watkins.
In 2013, Watkins, previously a member of Lostprophets, was imprisoned for multiple child sex offenses, including the attempted rape of a baby.
Syirin Said, Gaze’s wife, has shared her thoughts on recent occurrences, mentioning that the situation has resurfaced ‘a lot of emotions and experiences’.
Speaking on TikTok, Said remarked: “I can’t believe I’m saying and posting this. It’s been over a decade and I haven’t said a word until now. But seeing Lostprophets posts by people with zero context, zero empathy, – not to the victims, the band members, their families, including mine, makes me speak up.
“I am not speaking on behalf of my husband or the band members. I am speaking on behalf of me, my family, my kids, and our truths.”
She continued: “For decades my husband poured his heart and soul into writing epic songs, loved by their fans. His band touched so many lives positively when you think about Last Train Home, Rooftop, Burn Burn.”
Said emphasized that the band had no knowledge of Watkins’ criminal activities.
“Our family had to rebuild from nothing, no support. These posts with no heart, no mention of the victims still healing or families like ours still hurting, trying to get by, it’s like we’re invisible again. This isn’t a trend. It’s our life,” she stated.
Following the murder of Watkins, it has been reported that the prison reacted with celebration, as recounted by a partner of an inmate.
They shared with the Daily Mail: “He said that there was cheering when word spread that Watkins had been killed. All of the prisoners were locked in their cells, but word spread quickly. He was hated because his crimes were so sick.”
If you have been impacted by these issues or wish to speak confidentially about child welfare, the Childhelp USA National Child Abuse Hotline (1-800-4-A-CHILD (1-800-422-4453)) is available 24/7 and receives calls from across the United States, Canada, US Virgin Islands, Guam and Puerto Rico.