Gisèle Pelicot is returning to court to face one of her rapists, who is appealing last year’s conviction. A total of 51 people were found guilty in the case where Pelicot was raped in her home.
Court Developments and Case Details
Gisèle Pelicot, aged 72, returned to court in Nîmes in October 2025 to face the sole appellant among 51 convicted men who abused her over nearly a decade. Husamettin Dogan, a 44-year-old construction worker, was sentenced to 10 years in prison—an increase from his original 9-year sentence—for raping Pelicot after her ex-husband drugged her unconscious. The court also mandated a five-year treatment for Dogan. His defense claimed ignorance of Pelicot’s state, alleging he was deceived into believing it was a consensual arrangement; the court rejected this based on clear video evidence showing Pelicot unconscious and unresponsive during the assault. Dominique Pelicot, Gisèle’s ex-husband, admitted to drugging her and facilitating assaults by dozens of men he recruited online; he was sentenced to 20 years.[1][3][4][6]
Out of the 51 men convicted for sexual offenses ranging from rape to assault, 17 initially appealed but withdrew their appeals later. Dogan was the only one to persist in challenging his conviction. The case was heard by a mixed jury of nine citizens and three judges in the appeals trial, unlike the original five-judge panel.[3][6]
Community Reactions in Mazan
The community of Mazan, where Pelicot lives, shows mixed reactions. Some locals view the persistent media attention as intrusive, framing the events as a private family matter irrelevant to the broader town. The mayor echoed the sentiment, calling it a personal issue.
On the other hand, many women and civil servants argue the case uncovers deeper unresolved issues around domestic violence. They suspect that more perpetrators remain unpunished in the community, reflecting ongoing silent suffering and systemic challenges in addressing abuse [original context].[6]
National Impact on Sexual Violence Awareness and Law
Pelcot’s case sparked national and international attention, propelling her as a symbol for victims of sexual violence in France. Waiving her anonymity, Pelicot’s courage helped expose rape culture and domestic violence realities.
Despite increased reporting of sexual assaults, conviction rates have been slow to improve. Experts highlight emerging challenges, such as the rise of deepfake pornography and persistent societal attitudes minimizing consent.
Following the momentum, French legislators have advanced laws redefining rape to include any non-consensual sexual act, marking a critical shift towards consent-based legal definitions. A bill reflecting this change is expected to be approved shortly.[5][8][10]
Ongoing Challenges in Justice Reform
Advocates note that despite the landmark cases, practical reforms remain insufficient. Police and judiciary departments lack adequate resources and training to handle sexual violence cases effectively. Pelicot’s public stand brought awareness but highlighted the slow pace of systemic change. Her legal team underscores their commitment to ensure justice is fully served.[1][3]
