### French Judge Reverses Ruling, Allows Disturbing Videos in High-Profile Abuse Trial

A French court has made a pivotal decision in the case of Dominique Pelicot, 71, who is accused of horrifically drugging and facilitating the abuse of his wife Gisèle Pelicot, 72, by dozens of men over a span of more than ten years. Initially, the judge had restricted the viewing of video evidence, permitting only lawyers and the jury to see the footage. However, this decision has now been overturned.

Gisèle Pelicot bravely waived her right to anonymity, bringing the shocking nature of her ordeal into public view. Her legal team successfully appealed to have the videos shown, emphasizing the importance of highlighting the use of drugs in sexual abuse cases. Stéphane Babonneau, one of Ms. Pelicot’s lawyers, hailed the reversal as a significant success, asserting, "If these same hearings, through their publicity, help prevent other women from having to go through this, then she will find meaning in her suffering."

Dominique Pelicot has admitted to the charges and had documented many of the crimes on video. Among his co-defendants are 50 other men accused of participating in the rapes. The videos are seen as crucial pieces of evidence in the trial. To address concerns over their distressing content, the judge stipulated that an announcement would allow those of a sensitive disposition and minors to exit the courtroom before the footage is shown. The videos, he added, will not be broadcast systematically but only when necessary to reveal the truth upon request by one of the parties.

While some lawyers for the co-defendants argued against showing the footage, calling them "revolting screenings," the support from the French judicial press association (APJ) added weight to the reversal. They viewed the initial restriction as a significant threat to freedom of information.

Police identified 50 suspects from Pelicot's videos out of an alarming 83 individuals. Among those accused, 15 admitted to rape, while the others claimed only to have engaged in sexual acts.

Ms. Pelicot's decision to make her suffering public has had a profound impact, stirring strong reactions from the French public. The case highlights the severe and extensive nature of the abuse she endured.