Husamettin Dogan Trial: Gisèle Pelicot Faces Her Accuser in Mazan Rape Case Appeal
The appeal trial of Husamettin Dogan, the sole defendant who maintained his appeal in the high-profile Mazan rape case, began in Nîmes. Gisèle Pelicot, the victim, is determined to "go all the way" to see justice served after years of legal battles.
Dogan's Testimony and Expert Analysis
Husamettin Dogan reiterated his position, claiming he never intended to rape Gisèle Pelicot. Several experts analyzed Dogan's personality, describing him as having a strong "addictive dimension" to sex but without any impairment to his judgment. Dogan stated he was unaware that Pelicot was drugged, claiming her husband never informed him.
During questioning, the presiding judge inquired, "You penetrated her, but no one told you she was unconscious?". Dogan responded that he learned about it in custody. He arrived at the courthouse concealing his face with a cap, mask, and sunglasses, using a crutch.
Gisèle Pelicot's Resolute Presence
In contrast, Gisèle Pelicot entered and exited the courthouse to applause, smiling and supported by her son, Florian. She remained impassive during Dogan's initial statements. Her testimony is scheduled for Wednesday. Outside the courthouse, protesters held signs saying "Ras le viol" (Enough with Rape) and "Violeurs, la honte" (Rapists, Shame).
The Charges and Potential Sentence
Husamettin Dogan was initially sentenced to nine years in prison and now faces a maximum penalty of 20 years for "aggravated rape" of Gisèle Pelicot. The incident occurred on June 28, 2019, at the couple's home in Mazan (Vaucluse), with Pelicot having been drugged by her ex-husband. The trial is expected to last until Thursday.
Psychological Evaluations and Defense Arguments
Experts suggested that Dogan suffers from a "narcissistic flaw" stemming from a difficult childhood. However, they noted that he had a normal understanding of reality and knowingly transgressed boundaries. The defense argued that Dogan may have viewed Dominique Pelicot, Gisèle's ex-husband, as a paternal figure, influencing his actions.
Defense attorney Jean-Marc Darrigade stated that Dogan believed he was attending a swingers party and was manipulated by Dominique Pelicot, whom he characterized as a "manipulator." This echoes the defense's claim that Dominique Pelicot had been abusing his wife for years.
Dominique Pelicot's Testimony and Past Conviction
Dominique Pelicot, already sentenced to 20 years for raping and facilitating the rape of his wife by numerous men recruited online over a decade, will testify as a witness on Tuesday. He maintains that "everyone knew" they were there to rape a woman he had sedated. His lawyer confirmed this stance ahead of the trial. He did not appeal his conviction.
The Weight of Societal Scrutiny
Unlike the first trial, which involved 50 defendants, Husamettin Dogan faces intense scrutiny, with over 100 journalists covering the proceedings. Gisèle Pelicot, now 72, has become a feminist icon for her insistence that "shame must change sides" and for refusing to hold the initial trial behind closed doors. She has maintained this stance for the appeal.
Confrontation with Video Evidence
Dogan will again face video evidence of the assaults, filmed and meticulously archived by Dominique Pelicot. The videos show Dogan penetrating the unconscious and snoring Gisèle Pelicot multiple times. Gisèle Pelicot agreed to allow the videos to be shown publicly, ensuring the process is transparent.
