Gisèle Pelicot speaks after ex-husband awarded 20-year jail in France mass rape trial

The story so far

Dominique Pelicot, 72, was sentenced to 20 years in prison, the maximum penalty under French law, for drugging and raping Gisèle Pelicot and orchestrating her abuse by dozens of men. He will serve at least two-thirds of his sentence before being eligible for parole.

The trial has also raised questions about the legal definition of rape in France. (AP photo)

Of the 51 defendants, 50 were found guilty of rape or aggravated sexual assault. Sentences ranged from three to 15 years, with some defendants receiving partial suspensions. One was acquitted of rape but convicted of sexual assault.
As the verdicts were announced, Pelicot faced the defendants, sometimes nodding as each was declared guilty.

Outside the courthouse, protesters followed the proceedings on their phones, applauding each conviction.

Pelicot waived her right to anonymity and insisted on an open trial, allowing evidence, including videos, to be publicly examined. Her bravery has fueled conversations across France about consent, sexual violence, and societal responsibility.

Fanny Foures, a feminist activist, highlighted the trial’s ripple effects. “Men are starting to talk to women—girlfriends, mothers, friends—in ways they hadn’t before,” she said. A banner outside the courthouse reading “MERCI GISELE” reflected the gratitude of campaigners and supporters.

The trial has also raised questions about the legal definition of rape in France, particularly regarding the role of consent. Some defendants argued that Dominique Pelicot’s consent extended to his wife—a claim widely condemned.

Pelicot expressed hope for societal progress, saying, “I trust in our capacity to project ourselves toward a future where all, women and men, can live in harmony, with respect and mutual understanding.”

(With inputs from AP)