Dominique Pelicot Found Guilty in Mass Rape Case

Dominique Pelicot, 72, has been found guilty of orchestrating a decade-long scheme to drug and rape his ex-wife, Gisele Pelicot, alongside 50 other men, in one of France's most notorious sexual assault cases. Gisele, who has become a symbol of resilience and feminism for her refusal to remain silent, testified against her aggressors and waived her right to anonymity during the trial. Prosecutors are seeking sentences ranging from four to 20 years for all defendants, with the maximum requested for Dominique Pelicot, who admitted to his actions but claimed shared responsibility among the others. The case has sparked widespread outrage and calls for reforms in French rape laws to emphasize the necessity of consent. Many of the accused have denied the charges, arguing they believed the acts were consensual, while some have acknowledged their guilt. The court's final verdicts are expected soon, marking a pivotal moment in the ongoing battle for justice in sexual assault cases in France.