French prosecutors are seeking the maximum 20-year prison sentence for Dominique Pelicot, who organized the repeated mass rape of his then-wife by drugging her and inviting strangers to abuse her. In a trial that has attracted global attention, Pelicot has admitted to the charges, along with 50 other men who participated in the sex acts. The prosecutors rejected the claims of the accused that they did not realize they were raping the victim or did not intend to do so.
Gisele Pelicot, the victim, appeared motionless while being abused in thousands of recorded videos and pictures shown in court. Prosecutors argued that there was clear evidence she was unconscious and unable to consent. The trial has sparked protests in support of the victim and raised questions about updating France’s rape laws, which currently do not mention consent.
The prosecutors are also seeking a 17-year sentence for another man, Jean-Pierre Marechal, who confessed to drugging and raping his own wife in collaboration with Pelicot. The verdicts and sentences are expected to be delivered around Dec. 20. Gisele Pelicot, who could have requested a closed trial, chose to have it public to encourage other women to speak out against sexual violence. The trial has also prompted a debate on the need to update France’s laws on consent and rape. Pelicot’s lawyer expressed no surprise at the prosecutors seeking the maximum possible sentence.
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