Warning: This story contains distressing details from the outset.
In a shocking admission, Dominique Pelicot, a 71-year-old man, has confessed to drugging his wife and facilitating the abuse of her by numerous men over a decade. This revelation came during his testimony at a trial that began on September 2nd.
Pelicot openly labeled himself a rapist, stating, "I am a rapist like the others in this room," in reference to the 50 co-defendants accused of raping his ex-wife, Gisèle. He further remarked, "They all knew; they cannot say otherwise." While only 15 of the defendants have admitted to the charges of rape, the majority are claiming involvement only in sexual acts.
In a heart-wrenching response to her ex-husband’s admission, Gisèle expressed her anguish, stating, "It is difficult for me to listen to this. For 50 years, I lived with a man I never imagined could be capable of such actions. I trusted him completely." The trial, which is open to the public after Gisèle waived her right to anonymity, is aimed at returning the "shame" to those accused.
Mr. Pelicot began his testimony recounting traumatic experiences from his childhood, including abuse suffered at the hands of a male nurse at nine years old. He revealed that he contemplated suicide upon discovering his wife’s infidelity. Throughout his testimony, he frequently insisted he never "hated" his wife, professing, "I loved her immensely and I still do," even as he admitted to drugging her for a decade.
Questioned by Gisèle’s lawyer, he acknowledged his addiction to abuse, stating, "I tried to stop, but my addiction was stronger." Despite Gisèle’s severe health issues, he continued the abusive behavior, claiming, "I should’ve stopped sooner; in fact, I should’ve never started at all."
In addition to the charges against him regarding his wife, Pelicot has been accused of drugging and abusing his daughter, Caroline, allegations he adamantly denies. He maintained that he never touched his grandchildren.
Pelicot attributed his turn to perversion to an online encounter with a male nurse in 2010, who suggested drugging his wife with a sedative. He admitted to filming the acts of abuse, described as having been fueled by a mix of pleasure and the desire for insurance against potential accusations.
During the proceedings, Pelicot vocally rejected claims from several defendants that they were unaware they were participating in rape, stating they "came to look for me" and that he never forced anyone. He insisted that the only person he manipulated was his wife.
His lawyer emphasized Pelicot’s current state, highlighting his feelings of shame and questioning how his ex-wife would respond to his requests for forgiveness. As the trial continues, Mr. Pelicot’s health issues have led to intermittent absences, but he is expected to continue his testimony amid frequent breaks. As the case unfolds, the public and legal communities await further developments in this deeply disturbing story.
