by Adam Tait | Photos by WENN.com

Tags: Lostprophets

Lostprophets in 'shock' at frontman sex arrest

Lostprophets shut down website after sex charges, with future of the band now uncertain

 

Lostprophets in 'shock' at frontman sex arrest

Photo: WENN.com

Lostprophets have issued a statement speaking of their 'complete shock' at the arrest of frontman Ian Watkins, who has been charged with a number of sex offences - including conspiracy to rape a one-year-old.

"Following charges made today against Ian Watkins, we find ourselves in a state of shock," reads a statement on the band's website.

"We are learning about the details of the investigation along with you," it continues.

"It is a difficult time for us and our families, and we want to thank our fans for their support as we seek answers. Jamie, Lee, Luke, Mike and Stu."

All other content has been removed from the group's site. The future of the band is now in jeopardy after the revelations. Gigwise contacted Sony music for a statement on their future relationship with the band, but the label refused to make a comment on the situation at this time.

Following the singer's appearance in court yesterday (December 19), the full list of charges were revealed.

The 'Last Train Home' singer has been charged with several extreme sex offences, including conspiring to rape a one-year-old, conspiring to abuse two young children, making, possessing and distributing indecent images and possessing 'extreme animal pornography', The Metro reports.

Yesterday, Watkins and his two female co-accused, aged 20 and 24, were denied bail at a magistrates hearing in South Wales.

Watkins' mother had offered her home as security for Watkins bail.


News of the singer's alleged crimes have left his bandmates in shock

Watkins and his co-accused will remain in custody until 31st December 2012 when they will appear in Cardiff Crown Court.

Watkins was named in a South Wales Police statement yesterday.

"A Pontypridd man has been charged with sexual offences against children and is due to appear at Cardiff Magistrates' Court today," a spokesperson said following the arrested.

"The 35-year-old has been charged with conspracy to engage in sexual activity with a female under 13 and possession/distribution of indecent images of children.

"In order to assist in their investigation, South Wales Police has named the man as Ian Watkins, a member of the rock group Lostprophets."

The alleged incidents are thought to have occured between May 1, 2012 and Monday of this week.

Since forming in 1997 the group have sold 3.5million albums in their 15-year career.

The band, which Watkins was a founding member of, released their fifth album, Weapons, in April this year.

Photos: 2012 Warped Tour - Taking Back Sunday, Lostprophets and more

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