NIMES, France (AP) - Less than one year after a significant verdict in a high-profile drugging and rape trial that greatly affected France, an appeals court is preparing to hear the case of a man who is contesting his conviction. The trial, which garnered international attention, involved Gisèle Pelicot, who has become a global symbol in the fight against sexual violence.
Husamettin Dogan, the individual sentenced to nine years in prison last December for his role in the assaults, maintains that he did not intend to rape Pelicot. He claims that he was misled by Dominique Pelicot, Gisèle’s ex-husband, who drugged her and exploited her by offering her to strangers online, capturing the abusive acts on video.
The 44-year-old construction worker is facing charges of aggravated rape by administering substances that impair judgment or self-control, which carries a potential prison sentence of up to 20 years. Dogan remains free while awaiting the appeal verdict. Although prosecutors initially sought a 12-year sentence during his first trial, the court ultimately sentenced him to nine years.
Throughout the original proceedings, Dominique Pelicot and 50 other men were convicted of sexually assaulting Gisèle Pelicot from 2011 to 2020 while she was under the influence of chemical substances that impaired her abilities. Dominique Pelicot received a 20-year prison sentence, with the other defendants receiving sentences ranging from three to 15 years.
The trial attracted widespread attention when Gisèle Pelicot opposed a request for a closed hearing—made by several defendants—and the court supported her plea. Disturbing videos depicting the abuse that Dominique Pelicot filmed in their home in Mazan and other locations were part of the overwhelming evidence presented during the trial.
Gisèle Pelicot defiantly stated, "I have nothing to be ashamed of. Shame must change sides," on the opening day of the trial. Following the verdict, she expressed that she "never regretted that decision," thanking supporters for the strength they provided her to return to the courtroom each day.
Since the trial, Pelicot has become an emblem of the struggle against sexual violence, and her case has incited a national reckoning on rape culture in France. Dominique Pelicot admitted his involvement in the crimes and chose not to appeal his 20-year sentence, which is now finalized. He is anticipated to testify during the appeals hearing, having been implicated by Dogan, the remaining defendant seeking an appeal.
Among the 51 men convicted in the original trial, 17 initially filed appeals; however, most of these appeals were withdrawn, leaving only Dogan to continue with his appeal. The retrial is expected to be much shorter, scheduled to last no more than four days, with the verdict slated for Thursday.
Civil proceedings are set to take place in Avignon in November to determine the damages owed to Gisèle Pelicot and her family, which will be collectively paid by the convicted men.
