Gisele Pelicot, a French woman, took the stand in a trial that has drawn significant attention as she confronts her husband, Dominique P., accused of facilitating the systematic rape of her while she was incapacitated. During her emotional testimony in Avignon, she expressed her gratitude to the police for their investigation into her husband's computer, which brought to light the horrific crimes committed against her. Initially intending to keep her identity private, Pelicot later chose to reveal herself in the pursuit of justice, voicing the need for the trial to be conducted publicly so that all details could be disclosed.

At 71, Pelicot had remained silent during the trial's initial days, but her demeanor shifted dramatically as she described the agony she felt when she first viewed evidence of the abuse captured on video. Her anguish was palpable as she spoke about witnessing scenes she described as both horrifying and barbaric. She firmly repudiated any notion that the videos could be misconstrued as consensual behavior, reiterating that these were clear cases of rape and not any form of consensual relationship.

Some defense lawyers questioned Pelicot's awareness of the alleged abuses, prompting emotional reactions in the courtroom. Her attorney noted that she was eager to respond to the insinuations of complicity directed at her but was advised to wait. Firmly, Pelicot stated, "I am absolutely not complicit," clarifying that she never consented to the situations depicted in the videos recorded by her husband.

Dominique P. stands accused of drugging Pelicot with tranquilizers over several years, enabling him to enlist a multitude of men in the assault. Investigations revealed that he meticulously documented the abuse, leading authorities to identify over 50 suspects connected to the case using advanced methods, including facial recognition software. If found guilty, the alleged perpetrators, including Dominique, could face severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences.

As the trial continues, Pelicot's lawyer has expressed concern about the emotional toll this process will take on her, as she is compelled to relive traumatic memories associated with her husband's alleged crimes. According to prosecutors, the years of abuse took place primarily in the couple's home, with strict protocols allegedly established by Dominique to ensure that the men would not disturb his wife during the assaults.