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Witnesses testify defendant ‘fully aware’ he was assaulting Gisele Pelicot

Witnesses testify defendant ‘fully aware’ he was assaulting Gisele Pelicot

Summary

Witnesses testified in a French court that Husamettin Dogan was aware that Gisele Pelicot was asleep during an alleged assault. Dogan, appealing his conviction, claims misunderstanding consent, but prosecutors and witnesses presented contrary evidence. The verdict in this case, which has impacted French law discussions on sexual assault, is expected soon.

Key Facts

  • Husamettin Dogan is appealing his conviction after being sentenced to nine years for assaulting Gisele Pelicot.
  • Witnesses stated Dogan knew Pelicot was asleep during the assault.
  • Dominique Pelicot, Gisele's ex-husband, was sentenced to 20 years for organizing the assaults.
  • The assaults involved at least 50 men and were recorded on video.
  • Investigators found numerous photos and videos documenting the assault.
  • Gisele Pelicot waived anonymity to raise awareness about sexual violence.
  • Her case has influenced efforts to reform French sexual assault laws.
  • A new law on rape and consent is expected to pass in France soon.

Source Information