The Courage of Gisele: A Story Unfolded in French Court

Dominique Pelicot, sentenced to 20 years for abusing his ex-wife Gisele, will not appeal despite 17 co-defendants doing so. The trial highlighted Gisele's courage and sparked debate on France's rape laws. The case involved 50 co-defendants from various walks of life, many denying charges.

Dominique Pelicot, convicted to two decades in prison by a French court for the repeated drugging and rape of his former wife Gisele, and facilitating her assault by numerous strangers, has chosen not to appeal, according to his lawyer on Monday. However, a new trial looms as 17 co-defendants have decided to contest their convictions.

Gisele Pelicot, aged 72, emerged as a beacon of resilience and strength throughout the rigorous three-month proceedings involving her ex-husband and the 50 co-defendants, a case that has grabbed international attention. All parties were adjudged guilty on December 19 by the court.

Despite the unsettling history, Dominique Pelicot's legal representative, Beatrice Zavarro, told FranceInfo Radio that he abstained from appealing to prevent further distress to Gisele, whom he doesn't view as an opponent. Throughout the trial, it became clear that Dominique, who married Gisele five decades ago, acknowledged his wrongdoing, resulting in the maximum sentence from a panel of judges as prosecution demanded.

(With inputs from agencies.)