In a harrowing case that has shocked France, Lionel R., a 44-year-old supermarket employee, admitted in court that he raped Gisele Pelicot, a woman drugged into unconsciousness by her husband, Dominique Pelicot. Lionel, one of 50 men charged in the decade-long mass rape case, stated he realized something was wrong during the encounter but initially believed he was participating in a consensual game. He expressed remorse, acknowledging he never had Gisele's consent.
Gisele Pelicot, who has become a prominent feminist figure by demanding a public trial, criticized suggestions from defense lawyers that she had consented. “Rape is rape,” she stated firmly.
The trial has drawn significant attention, particularly because Dominique Pelicot's co-defendants include seemingly ordinary men, such as a fireman, a nurse, and a journalist. A total of 49 men are accused of raping or attempting to rape Gisele, while one man is charged with sexually assaulting his own wife by impersonating Dominique.
Lionel recounted his interactions with Dominique through a libertine website, where he was encouraged to have sex with Gisele. He was misled about the nature of the situation and followed Dominique's pushy directions until he realized something was amiss when Gisele began to stir. After spending a year in detention prior to the trial, Lionel stated that his life has also been ruined by the incident.
Dominique Pelicot claimed he never forced anyone, suggesting Lionel's repentance came too late. Another co-defendant, 72-year-old Jacques C., denied any accusations of rape, asserting he merely touched Gisele and sought her forgiveness, claiming respect for women.
Gisele, who obtained a divorce in August, has garnered public support and praise for her courage in bringing this case to light. Thousands protested in her support over the weekend, and notable figures, including singer Renaud, have expressed admiration for her bravery. Currently, 17 men are in custody, including Dominique Pelicot, while 32 others are attending the trial as free men. One co-defendant remains at large and is being tried in absentia.
