Gisèle Pelicot, a symbol of the fight against sexual violence in France, finally received justice as the verdict was announced in the mass rape trial involving her ex-husband and 50 other men.
The trial, held in Avignon, concluded after more than three months of harrowing revelations detailing the decade-long abuse she endured.
Dominique Pelicot, 72, was found guilty of systematically drugging his wife and inviting strangers to rape her while she was unconscious.
His crimes took place over nearly a decade in their home in Mazan, a village in southern France. Dominique, who admitted his guilt during the trial, now faces up to 20 years in prison.
The abuse only came to light when police discovered videos and photographs of the crimes, secretly recorded by Dominique. These recordings revealed the extent of the abuse and identified dozens of men who participated in the assaults.
As the verdict was delivered, applause erupted from supporters outside the courtroom. Campaigners held signs demanding justice, with messages such as “Prison Case for All” and “Your Dk in a Blender.”**
Prosecutors are seeking the maximum sentence for Dominique Pelicot. They have also requested sentences ranging from 10 to 18 years for the other defendants charged with aggravated rape and attempted rape. An additional defendant faces a four-year prison sentence for aggravated sexual assault.
For nearly 10 years, Gisèle Pelicot was subjected to horrific abuse orchestrated by her now ex-husband, a man she trusted for half a century. The case has sparked national outrage and highlighted the need for stronger protections against sexual violence in France.
Gisèle’s courage in confronting her abusers and seeking justice has made her a powerful figure in the movement against sexual violence. The trial’s outcome underscores the importance of holding perpetrators accountable and ensuring that survivors’ voices are heard.
