Introduction

The trial of Dominique Pelicot and 50 other men accused of raping Gisèle Pelicot has shocked France and turned the victim into a feminist icon. This horrific case has brought attention to issues of consent, drug-facilitated sexual assault, and rape culture.

The Case

Dominique Pelicot, 72, is accused of drugging and raping his then-wife Gisèle Pelicot, also 72, for nearly a decade between 2011 and 2020. He allegedly:

Sedated her with anti-anxiety medication and sleeping pills mixed into her food or wine

Invited strangers to rape her while unconscious, recruiting them from online chatrooms

Filmed the assaults, amassing over 20,000 images and videos

Prosecutors say 92 rapes took place, carried out by 72 men. 51 of these men have been identified and are on trial alongside Dominique Pelicot.

The Trial

Key aspects of this landmark trial include:

It has lasted over 3 months, with verdicts expected by December 18-19, 2024

Gisèle Pelicot waived her right to anonymity and requested a public trial

Video evidence was shown in open court at her request

Protesters have gathered outside the courthouse in support of Pelicot

Impact and Reactions

This case has had significant impact:

Gisèle Pelicot has become a feminist hero, praised for her bravery in facing her attackers

It has sparked protests against sexual violence across France

The French government launched an awareness campaign about chemical submission

The trial has ignited discussion about broadening the legal definition of rape to explicitly include consent

Broader Issues Highlighted

This case has brought attention to several important issues

Drug-facilitated sexual assault

Consent and rape culture

The use of technology in sexual crimes

The importance of believing and supporting survivors

Conclusion

As France awaits the verdicts, this trial has already made a significant impact on public discourse around sexual violence and consent.