Gisele Pellicot’s ex-husband Dominique Pellicot has been jailed for drugging her and recruiting strangers to rape her. He went on trial along with 50 other men, 46 of whom were found guilty of rape, two of attempted rape and two of sexual assault.
Outside court, Gisele Pellico issued a statement – the full statement is below.
“This trial is a very difficult ordeal. My first thoughts are about my three children, David, Caroline and Florian. I also think about my grandchildren because they are the future and so am I. I am leading this fight for them because, along with my daughters-in-law, Aurore and Celine, I am also thinking of all the other families affected by this tragedy.
“Finally, I think about the unacknowledged victims, whose stories too often remain in the shadows. I want you to know that we are in this fight together.
“I would like to express my deepest gratitude to everyone who supported me through this ordeal. Your testimonies left me distraught and I draw strength from them to come back every day of the long hearing.
“I would also like to thank the Victims Assistance Society for their unwavering support. It has been priceless to me. I would like to thank all the journalists who have followed me and followed this case since it began. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the faithful, respectful and dignified of people expressed gratitude for reporting on these hearings every day.
“Finally, I would like to express my gratitude and respect to my lawyers who have been with me at every stage of this painful journey.
“I hope that by opening the door to trial on September 2nd, society will be able to pay attention to the debate that is taking place there.
“I have never regretted this decision. I am now confident in our ability to seize a future together where every woman and man can live in harmony with respect and mutual understanding. I thank you.”
