A French court on Thursday sentenced Dominique Pelicot, 72, to the maximum term of 20 years in prison for orchestrating and committing mass rapes against his former wife, Gisele Pelicot.
Dominique confessed to drugging Gisele over a decade, enabling himself and strangers he recruited online to assault her. This landmark case, which took place in Avignon, has shocked France and elevated Gisele as a symbol of feminist resistance.
The trial also involved 50 convicted co-defendants, with their sentences announced throughout the day. Among them was a man who, while not assaulting Gisele, was found guilty of raping his wife with Dominique's assistance.
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Sentences for the co-defendants ranged from up to 18 years for aggravated rape to four years for lesser offenses. One defendant, currently on the run, was tried in absentia.
The court proceedings, spanning over three months, were marked by high security and palpable tension. Many defendants arrived prepared for imprisonment, some visibly emotional.
Presiding Judge Roger Arata delivered the verdict, confirming Dominique Pelicot’s guilt and ruling that he must serve at least two-thirds of his sentence before parole eligibility.
Gisele Pelicot, also 72, waived her right to a closed trial, courageously confronting her abusers and inspiring women worldwide. Crowds of supporters and feminist activists cheered her arrival at court, chanting "Justice for Gisele." Her story has dominated French headlines, with media highlighting her resilience.
This case underscores the global impact of sexual violence and the need for justice. Feminist groups, such as the Amazons of Avignon, emphasized its significance, declaring, "Shame has changed sides." Gisele's bravery and the historic verdict have sparked conversations about accountability and women's rights worldwide.
