A French court convicted all 51 defendants on Thursday in a harrowing drugging-and-rape case that captivated global attention and highlighted the bravery of the victim, 72-year-old Gisele Pelicot.
Her ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot, was sentenced to the maximum 20 years in prison for drugging her repeatedly over nearly a decade, facilitating her rape by dozens of strangers, and recording the abuse.
Prosecutors also sought prison terms ranging from four to 18 years for the other defendants, accused of raping Gisele while she was unconscious. Gisele’s decision to waive her anonymity and demand that the abuse be shown in court galvanised public support, sparking protests and discussions about updating France’s rape laws to emphasise consent.
The trial drew significant attention, with Gisele resolutely confronting her abusers in court and declaring, “I’ve done nothing wrong… they are the ones who must be ashamed.” She inspired rallies across France, and her testimony became a rallying cry for victims of sexual violence to speak out.
Outside the court in Avignon supporters celebrated the verdict as a victory for justice.
Gisele’s children stood by her throughout the trial, vocally condemning their father’s actions.
