Gisele Pelicot Returns to Court as Appeal Trial Begins in Landmark French Rape Case
Gisele Pelicot Returns to Court as Appeal Trial Begins in Landmark French Rape Case
The appeal trial for Husamettin Dogan, convicted in the shocking Gisele Pelicot rape case, commenced this Monday in Nimes, France. Less than a year after the landmark verdict that saw 51 men, including Pelicot’s ex-husband, sentenced for sexual assault, Pelicot herself was greeted with applause as she arrived at the courthouse, continuing her courageous public stand against sexual violence.
Dogan, a 44-year-old construction worker, was previously sentenced to nine years in prison last December. He denies intending to rape Pelicot, arguing he was deceived by Dominique Pelicot, Gisele’s ex-husband, who drugged his wife and offered her to strangers online while filming the assaults. Dogan faces charges of aggravated rape by administering substances that impair judgment or self-control, an offense that carries a maximum penalty of 20 years. He remains free pending the outcome of this appeal.
Gisele Pelicot, who has become a global icon and symbol in the fight against sexual violence, entered the courthouse under police escort, smiling and shaking hands with supporters. Her decision to oppose a closed hearing in the original proceedings drew international attention, and she famously stated, “I have nothing to be ashamed of. Shame must change sides.”
While the initial trial spanned four months, this appeal is scheduled for no more than four days, with a verdict anticipated on Thursday. Dominique Pelicot, who did not appeal his 20-year sentence, is expected to testify during these proceedings. This case continues to fuel a national reckoning over rape culture in France, with civil proceedings for damages due in November.
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