Gisele Pelicot exits the courtroom during a break at the Avignon courthouse, where her ex-partner Dominique Pelicot is on trial for allegedly drugging her for nearly a decade and inviting strangers to rape her at their home in Mazan, a small town in southern France. The trial, which began on November 14, 2024, has drawn significant attention from the public and media. When the court displays videos of the abuse she endured, Gisele typically averts her gaze, preferring to converse with a young woman seated beside her. This woman, Anne-Sophie Langlet, a representative from the Association for Mediation and Assistance to Victims (Amav), has been a constant presence since the trial commenced on September 2, serving as Gisele's assistant and confidante.
Dominique Pelicot, Gisele's former husband, stands accused of raping her and orchestrating the rapes of dozens of strangers on his heavily sedated wife over nearly ten years. He is one of 50 men on trial, many of whom have refuted the allegations. Gisele has emerged as a feminist symbol both in France and internationally, advocating for the trial to be public to highlight the use of drugs in sexual abuse cases. The proceedings have been profoundly challenging for Gisele, who described herself as a 'field of ruins' in September. Langlet's role extends beyond legal comprehension; she provides moral support and helps Gisele and her three children navigate the emotional toll of the trial.
Amav's approach is neutral, devoid of complicity or friendship, focusing solely on being a reliable presence for Gisele. Langlet and her colleagues have established a psychological safety net, ensuring Gisele feels supported whenever she needs to express herself. The association, one of 130 in France supporting victims of crimes including rape and harassment, was requested by the Avignon public prosecutor's office to accompany Gisele's family during the trial. Langlet met Gisele just 15 minutes before the first hearing, quickly establishing a bond of trust. The support has been extended throughout the trial, which is expected to conclude in December 20.
One of Gisele's lawyers, Stephane Babonneau, commended the support provided by Langlet and her team, describing them as 'very human, very competent' and integral to helping their client endure this ordeal. A 'decompression chamber' adjacent to the courtroom has been set up for the family, where Gisele finds solace. Langlet notes that Gisele has been consuming more sweets than usual during the trial breaks, a small comfort in an otherwise harrowing experience.
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