A high-profile rape trial in Avignon, France has entered a critical phase as prosecutors outline the verdicts and penalties sought for 51 defendants accused of raping Gisèle Pelicot while she was drugged and unconscious. The trial, which has spanned nearly three months, has garnered significant attention due to Pelicot's bravery throughout the proceedings, turning her into a symbol for advocates against sexual violence.
The focus of the trial has shifted to Dominique Pelicot, Gisèle's former husband of almost 50 years, who admitted to drugging her to facilitate rape by himself and numerous strangers he recruited online. Prosecutors are seeking the maximum penalty of 20 years for aggravated rape against the 72-year-old ex-husband.
Gisèle Pelicot, who has chosen to be publicly identified, has been instrumental in presenting evidence, including graphic videos filmed by her husband, depicting her unconscious state during the assaults. The court is expected to deliver its verdicts before December 20.
Prosecutors highlighted how Dominique Pelicot meticulously documented the abuse with a collection of 20,000 photos and videos stored on various devices, leading to the identification of the other defendants. The prosecutors emphasized the lack of consent from Gisèle Pelicot throughout the ordeal.
Despite the emotional toll, Gisèle Pelicot has remained composed in court, advocating for a shift in shame from victims to perpetrators. She divorced her husband upon discovering the extent of his actions, which he tearfully admitted to in court. The defendants understood the nature of their actions when invited to engage in sexual acts with Gisèle Pelicot without her knowledge.
