A Timeline of Dominique Pelicot’s Rape Trial in France

The case of Dominique Pelicot, a Frenchman who drugged and raped his wife, Gisèle, has sent shockwaves throughout the nation. Pelicot was handed a 20-year prison sentence after pleading guilty to the heinous crimes. To understand the gravity of the situation, let’s take a look at the timeline of events that led to the trial.

The ordeal began in 2014 when Pelicot, then 45, met Gisèle, a 22-year-old woman, at a bar. They got married in 2016, and their relationship seemed normal to those around them. However, behind closed doors, Pelicot was allegedly controlling and abusive.

In 2017, Pelicot started secretly spiking Gisèle’s drinks with a powerful anesthetic, Rohypnol, also known as the “date-rape drug.” He would then take advantage of her while she was unconscious. This horrific pattern continued for several years, with Gisèle often waking up with no memory of the previous night’s events.

In 2019, Gisèle discovered a hidden camera in their bedroom, which Pelicot had installed to record her without her consent. This led to her seeking help from authorities. When police investigated, they found evidence of the drugging and rape, including security footage and testimony from witnesses.

Pelicot was arrested in 2020 and charged with drugging and raping his wife. During the investigation, he confessed to the crimes, but claimed that Gisèle had consented to the acts. The prosecution, however, argued that Gisèle was a victim of coercion and manipulation.

The trial took place in January 2022, with Pelicot pleading guilty to the charges. The court heard testimony from Gisèle, who described the trauma and pain she endured at the hands of her husband. The prosecution presented evidence, including medical records and expert testimony, which demonstrated Pelicot’s deliberate and calculated actions.

On January 25, 2022, the court delivered its verdict, sentencing Pelicot to 20 years in prison. The judge condemned Pelicot’s actions as “cruel, inhumane, and degrading,” emphasizing that his abuse of power and trust had caused Gisèle severe psychological damage.

The case highlights the dark reality of domestic violence and the devastating consequences of abuse of power in relationships. Pelicot’s sentence serves as a warning to those who would exploit and harm others, and a testament to the resilience of survivors like Gisèle, who have bravely spoken out against their abusers.