Pelicot tells court rape suspects are 'degenerates'

The woman at the centre of the Monster of Avignon multiple rape trial accused her attackers of being “degenerates” as she gave evidence yesterday.

- PETER ALLEN

Gisele Pelicot, 71, gave permission for the court to view horrific videos of her being drugged and raped by dozens of men, including her ex-husband, Dominique Pelicot.

All are accused of “aggravated rape”, while Mr Pelicot has admitted drugging his wife and violating her over a 10-year period. The trial at the Vaucluse Criminal Court, in Avignon, has portrayed Mr Pelicot as one of the worst sex offenders in recent French history.

But Ms Pelicot has been listening to insults from some of the defendants in court, including some who say she was complicit. “Not for a second did I give my consent to Mr Pelicot, nor to these men who are behind me,” she said. “Since I arrived in this courtroom, I have been humiliated. I have been called an alcoholic, an accomplice of Mr Pelicot. I have heard everything. You have to have a degree of patience to endure everything I have to hear.”

As her cross-examination continued, Ms Pelicot raised her voice, stared at the accused, and said: “For me, they are degenerates.”