### High-Profile Rape Trial in France Nears Verdicts as Prosecutors Request Maximum Penalties

AVIGNON, France — The monumental rape trial in France, involving 51 defendants accused of raping Gisèle Pelicot, is entering a critical phase as prosecutors began outlining their proposed verdicts and sentences. For nearly three months, the southern city of Avignon has hosted the harrowing proceedings, which have highlighted Gisèle Pelicot’s remarkable courage. At 71 years old, she has become an emblematic figure for advocates combating sexual violence, both within France and beyond.

Prosecutors have zeroed in on Dominique Pelicot, the ex-husband of Gisèle Pelicot. Married to him for close to 50 years, Gisèle had once believed him to be a loving partner. However, Dominique has admitted to drugging his wife with sedatives over several years, using the opportunity to rape her and inviting numerous strangers he met online to do the same. During Monday's session, Prosecutor Laure Chabaud asked for the maximum penalty of 20 years for aggravated rape against him. Dominique Pelicot, who turns 72 this week, appeared solemn, his gaze fixed on the floor, as the prosecutor presented the case.

Gisèle Pelicot, who waived her right to anonymity, insisted that graphic footage filmed by her husband be shown in court to prove that she was unconscious and unresponsive during the assaults. The court’s verdicts are expected to be announced by December 20. Prosecutor Jean-François Mayet lauded her bravery and emphasized the trial's significance on the international day for the elimination of violence against women, stressing the need to shift societal views on rape culture.

Throughout the trial, it was revealed that Dominique Pelicot diligently catalogued a disturbing collection of 20,000 photos and videos of the assaults, which spanned nearly a decade. This extensive evidence led investigators to many of the men involved, though about 20 remain unidentified. Among the 51 defendants, all but one face charges for aggravated rape or attempted rape.

Public interest in the trial has been high, with crowds gathering outside the courthouse to boo defendants and show support for Gisèle Pelicot. Supporters heralded her as a pivotal figure in the fight for women's rights and the shift of shame from victims to perpetrators of sexual violence. One supporter, Chantal Crémont, underscored the revolutionary impact of Gisèle's stance, noting her role in changing perceptions of rape victims.

As the trial nears its conclusion, prosecutors are methodically detailing the charges and requested sentences, a process expected to take three days due to the sheer volume of defendants. Following the initial request for a 20-year sentence for Dominique Pelicot, prosecutors have already called for sentences of 10 years or more for co-defendants. Dominique Pelicot acknowledged his guilt, clarifying that those he invited were fully aware of their actions. His lawyer, Béatrice Zavarro, remarked that while the requested maximum penalty is unsurprising given the severity of the crimes, it remains a severe sentence for someone of his age.

Prime Minister Michel Barnier commented on the trial, praising Gisèle Pelicot’s extraordinary bravery and recognizing the broad emotional impact her story has had on the French public. This case continues to resonate deeply, reflecting the ongoing struggle against sexual violence in society.