France's Silent March Supports Gisèle Pelicot: A Shocking Case
In Mazan, France, hundreds joined a silent march supporting Gisèle Pelicot, who was drugged by her husband and assaulted by more than 80 men. A court in Avignon is showcasing video evidence of these crimes at the trial. Dominique Pelicot confessed to aggravated rape, facing years of prosecution for the systematic abuse of his wife.
In Mazan, France, a silent march was held to support Gisèle Pelicot and other female victims of sexual violence.
Pelicot's husband, Dominique, is accused of drugging her and facilitating her assault by over 80 men.
Hundreds gathered in solidarity, despite the family's absence, to stand against the atrocities.
French judges in an Avignon court permitted videos of the alleged abuse to be shown publicly, a decision prompted by the insistence of Pelicot's lawyers who argued these videos are crucial in proving the crimes.
Dominique Pelicot, who confessed to aggravated rape over ten years, enacted these crimes by luring attackers via an online chatroom.
The trial, which highlights failings in addressing sexual violence despite the #MeToo movement, continues with 50 men facing charges, while 30 remain unidentified.
If convicted, the accused could face up to 20 years in prison.