Gisèle Pelicot's ex-husband sentenced to 20 years for decade-long rape and abuse

Dominique Pelicot, the ex-husband of Gisèle Pelicot, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for drugging and raping her and enabling others to assault her over nearly a decade. The shocking case, involving 50 other defendants, has shaken France and reignited conversations about consent and rape culture.

The verdict, delivered by Judge Roger Arata in the Avignon court, found Pelicot guilty of aggravated rape and other charges. At 72, the sentence likely means he will spend the rest of his life behind bars. Gisèle Pelicot, who courageously waived her anonymity, faced her abusers in court as each guilty verdict was read.

Dominique Pelicot admitted to drugging his wife during their marriage, allowing strangers he recruited online to assault her while he filmed the abuse. Investigators discovered over 20,000 photos and videos cataloging the assaults. These videos led to the identification and trial of 50 men, 49 of whom were convicted. One man was found guilty of aiding Pelicot in drugging and raping another woman.

The trial, lasting over three months, has been a watershed moment in France’s fight against sexual violence. Feminist groups rallied in support of Gisèle, with banners reading “Merci Gisèle” hung around Avignon. Activists praised her bravery, which spurred national conversations about the role of men and women in combating abuse.

Campaigners have also called for stricter legal definitions of rape, emphasizing consent and rejecting arguments made by some defendants that Dominique’s consent extended to his wife. The case has challenged outdated notions of consent and accountability in sexual crimes.

Gisèle Pelicot’s decision to push for an open trial ensured that the full extent of the abuse was publicly documented, forcing France to confront uncomfortable truths about rape culture. Her courage has inspired survivors and advocates across the nation to demand systemic change and better protections for women.