In a significant ruling, a French court overseeing the trial of Dominique Pelicot, accused of orchestrating the rape of his drugged wife by dozens of strangers, has reversed an earlier decision. It now allows the public to be present during the screening of video evidence.
This ruling was announced on Friday by Judge Roger Arata in the southern city of Avignon. Reacting to the judgement, victim’s lawyer Gisele Pelicot hailed the decision as a “victory.
But, judge Arata clarified that before any video evidence is shown, an announcement will be made to allow minors and those of a sensitive disposition to leave the courtroom.
Earlier, judge Arata had banned the screening of these images in the presence of the public and press, citing their indecent and shocking nature.
However, Gisele Pelicot’s legal team argued that French law, in place for over 40 years, grants rape victims the right to decide whether or not their trials should be open to the public.
“This is a victory, but one we shouldn’t have had to fight for,” said Gisele’s lawyer, Stephane Babonneau. He added that by making her case public, Gisele hopes to help prevent other women from suffering similar fates. Her bravery has earned her widespread praise and turned her into a feminist icon in France.
Since the trial began on September 2, the courtroom had been restricted to the court, parties involved, and the press, with the public assigned to a separate room where the proceedings were screened live. But, the public will now be allowed to view video evidence in the main courtroom when deemed necessary to reveal the truth.
What Was The Case?
Meanwhile, Dominique Pelicot had documented much of the abuse against his wife, filming the assaults and keeping detailed records of the strangers who visited their home to commit the crimes.
His activities first came under police investigation after he was caught taking inappropriate photos of women in a supermarket in 2020. These records ultimately helped law enforcement uncover the full extent of his crimes.
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