On September 11, 2024, Dominique Pelicot, a man from France, admitted during a court appearance in Avignon to arranging for dozens of strangers to rape his wife, Gisele Pelicot, over a period of nearly ten years charges.
Pelicot expressed regret and asked for forgiveness from his family, including his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Dominique, 71, who appeared in court with a cane, is facing multiple charges including rape, gang rape and privacy violations for filming and sharing the assaults.
Gisele Pelicot, who was present in the courtroom, expressed disbelief over her husband’s actions, stating that she never suspected him of being capable of such behavior.
The case, which has deeply affected many people in France, involves 50 other men also facing charges.
Dominique Pelicot’s attorney assured that all details of the case would be carefully reviewed during the trial.
Gisele, who has become a symbol of resistance against violence in France, insisted on a public trial to bring attention to the issue.
Demonstrations in support of Gisele took place across several cities in France, emphasizing the public’s strong reaction to the case.
If convicted, the accused could face up to 20 years in prison.
