Dominique Pelicot Faces Maximum Sentence in Landmark Mazan Rape Trial

The trial of Dominique Pelicot and 50 others for the repeated drugging and rape of Gisèle Pelicot has highlighted systemic issues of consent and societal complicity in sexual violence.

Dominique Pelicot, accused of orchestrating over 200 rapes of his drugged wife by 83 men, faces a potential 20-year prison sentence as prosecutors demand the maximum penalty.
The trial, which has lasted over 50 days, includes 51 defendants, with charges ranging from aggravated rape to possession of child pornography, and has become a flashpoint for discussions on consent and accountability in France.
Gisèle Pelicot, who waived her anonymity, has become a symbol of resilience and societal change, with her decision to make the trial public drawing widespread attention and solidarity from women across the world.
Prosecutors emphasized the necessity of societal reform, stating that the case underscores the need for education on consent and the rejection of excuses like 'lack of intent' in sexual violence cases.
The trial has sparked a national reckoning on toxic masculinity and systemic sexual violence, with activists and the public rallying around Gisèle to demand justice and cultural change.