A Frenchman, Dominique Pelicot, is currently on trial for allegedly drugging his wife, Gisele Pelicot, and allowing strangers to rape her over a decade. The case has shocked France, as it was revealed that Dominique had not only orchestrated the horrific crimes but also tried to cover them up by accusing his wife of infidelity when she sought medical help for unexplained gynecological issues.
Gisele Pelicot approached her husband about various health problems, including what she described as an “unexplained sexual illness.” Rather than addressing her concerns, Dominique accused her of having extramarital affairs, suggesting her health issues were the result of infidelity. He questioned her, asking, “So, what are you doing with your days?”
Gisele had no idea that her health problems stemmed from being regularly drugged and raped by strangers her husband had invited into their home. He reportedly put tranquilizers in her evening meals, leaving her unconscious and unaware of the assaults.
During the trial, Judge Roger Arata outlined the prosecution’s case, revealing that Dominique enlisted more than 70 people over 10 years to repeatedly rape his wife. He not only facilitated the abuse but also recorded the incidents and “encouraged” the attackers to use foul language. Dominique portrayed his marriage as “perfect” and his wife as “sex-obsessed” in an effort to divert attention from his crimes.
The horrifying truth came to light when Dominique was arrested in 2020 for filming under women’s skirts. During the investigation, police uncovered evidence of the serial rapes and informed Gisele, who had been unaware of the abuses she had suffered for years.
In an even more disturbing twist, police found compromising photos of Dominique’s now 40-year-old daughter, Caroline Darian, on his laptop. The images were stored under a file labeled “My Daughter Naked,” and showed her asleep on a bed.
Dominique, along with 50 other people, is facing charges of aggravated or attempted rape. The accused attackers, ranging in age from 26 to 74, come from various social and economic backgrounds. While some remain in custody, others have been released on bail.
This high-profile case has drawn widespread attention due to its horrific nature and the sheer number of people allegedly involved in the abuse. The trial continues as the court seeks justice for Gisele and other victims.
