Shocking Mass Rape Trial Nears Conclusion in France
A groundbreaking mass rape trial is entering its final phase in Avignon, France, focusing on Dominique Pelicot, who admitted to drugging his then-wife Gisèle and recruiting dozens of men to sexually assault her while she was unconscious.
The case, known as the “Affaire Mazan,” involves 51 defendants – Dominique Pelicot and 50 other men aged between 26 and 72. Investigators found evidence of approximately 200 rapes committed between 2011 and 2020, though they could not identify an additional 21 men.
Dominique and Gisèle Pelicot, both born in 1952 and married since 1973, appeared to be a happy couple who retired to a picturesque southern village in 2013. However, between 2011 and 2020, Gisèle experienced mysterious blackouts and memory loss, which she initially believed were signs of a serious medical condition.
The case came to light in September 2020 when Dominique was caught filming under women’s skirts in a supermarket. Police investigation of his electronic devices revealed thousands of videos showing men having sex with an unconscious woman – his wife. When confronted, Dominique immediately admitted to his crimes, and Gisèle was shocked to learn of the systematic abuse.
Most defendants deny rape charges, arguing they were unaware Gisèle was unconscious and therefore could not have known they were committing rape. This defense has sparked a nationwide discussion about potentially revising France’s legal definition of rape to explicitly include consent.
Unusually, Gisèle Pelicot has waived her anonymity and insisted on public trial proceedings. She hopes her openness will empower other sexual violence survivors to speak out, stating, “I want all women who have been raped to say: Madame Pelicot did it, I can too.”
The trial has garnered significant public attention, with dozens attending court daily to support Gisèle. Murals depicting her have appeared across France, and demonstrations have been held in her support. The case has initiated crucial conversations about rape culture, misogyny, and chemical submission.
Feminist groups are now advocating for legal reforms, pushing the government to amend the rape definition to include consent. Green senator Mélanie Vogel noted, “Society has already accepted that the difference between sex and rape is consent. Criminal law, however, has not.”
Dominique Pelicot has been in jail since November 2020 and will be sentenced next month alongside the other defendants. Gisèle, who divorced her husband after his crimes were revealed, continues to seek justice and raise awareness about sexual violence.
The trial is expected to conclude with a verdict on December 20, potentially marking a significant moment in France’s approach to sexual assault legislation.
