Dominique Pelicot, 71, was found guilty of aggravated rape on Thursday and sentenced to 20 years in prison after being convicted of drugging his wife, Gisele Pelicot, and inviting at least 80 strangers to sexually assault her over the course of a decade. The harrowing case has sent shockwaves through France and the world.
The 72-year-old victim, Gisele Pelicot, discovered the horrific truth about her partner of five decades only four years ago when police uncovered extensive evidence of abuse, including 20,000 images and videos, on Dominique’s computer. The abuse began when Dominique secretly administered tranquilizers to Gisele, leaving her unconscious as he orchestrated the assaults. Gisele, who initially believed she was suffering from Alzheimer’s disease due to unexplained gynecological issues, became a symbol of resilience when she chose to reveal her identity and demand a public trial to hold her abusers accountable.
The verdict was delivered in a highly anticipated trial in the French city of Avignon. Dominique Pelicot was convicted of aggravated rape and the attempted aggravated rape of another woman, along with charges of producing indecent images of his daughter and daughters-in-law. Jean-Pierre Marechal, a co-defendant who worked with Dominique to drug and rape his own wife, was sentenced to 12 years in prison.
Prosecutors had called for a 20-year sentence for Dominique, citing the gravity and repeated nature of his crimes, while seeking a 17-year sentence for Marechal. Other co-defendants received prison terms ranging from five to 13 years, with one acquitted. The court dismissed claims from some defendants that they believed the acts were consensual, emphasizing the non-consensual nature of the abuse.
Lead Judge Roger Arata pronounced Dominique guilty, stating, “You are therefore declared guilty of aggravated rape on the person of Mme. Gisele Pelicot.” The sentence effectively ensures Dominique will spend the remainder of his life in prison. He initially displayed no emotion during the verdict but later appeared visibly distressed.
The case has ignited protests across France, with supporters of Gisele demanding justice and calling for stricter measures to combat sexual violence. Crowds gathered outside the courthouse cheered as the guilty verdicts were announced. The trial has also fueled debates on updating France’s rape laws, which currently do not explicitly address consent.
Gisele, accompanied by her children, David and Caroline, expressed determination to see justice served. Speaking ahead of the verdict, she said, “This is the trial of cowardice. There is no excuse for abusing me when I was unconscious. They must take responsibility for their actions. Rape is rape.”
Gisele’s ordeal came to light in November 2020, when Dominique was arrested for filming up women’s skirts at a supermarket. Police discovered the extensive evidence of his crimes during the investigation. Gisele credited law enforcement for saving her life and exposing the years of abuse.
This landmark case has brought attention to systemic issues in addressing sexual violence in France. Advocates are calling for significant legal reforms and increased awareness to prevent similar atrocities. Gisele’s courage in facing her abusers and bringing the case to light has resonated with many, marking a pivotal moment in the fight for justice and accountability for survivors of sexual violence.
