Tue Sep 10 13:52:00 UTC 2024: ## Trial of French Man Accused of Drugging and Raping Wife Delayed as Defendant Falls Ill
**Avignon, France** – A trial that has gripped France, involving a man accused of drugging his wife and inviting over 80 men to rape her over a decade, has been delayed due to the defendant’s illness. Dominique Pelicot, the accused, was taken to hospital and is unable to attend court.
The news of the delay was met with frustration by those in attendance, including Gisèle Pelicot, the victim, who has bravely waived her anonymity to bring attention to the dangers of “chemical submission” – being drugged and sexually assaulted.
The case has sparked tensions in the village of Mazan, where the Pelicots lived, as the identities of the alleged rapists have been widely shared online. Residents fear for their safety, unsure of who to trust.
Despite the deep concern among the community, Mazan’s mayor, Louis Bonnet, downplayed the gravity of the situation, suggesting the case was not as serious as other crimes. His comments have been met with anger from many who believe he is minimizing the trauma experienced by Gisèle Pelicot and her family.
The trial is expected to resume once Dominique Pelicot recovers.
**Further Developments:**
* 50 of the 80 alleged rapists have been identified and detained, but 30 remain at large.
* The victim’s daughter, Caroline, has come forward to say she believes she was also drugged by her father and has become an advocate for victims of rape and drugging.
* The case has sparked a broader discussion in France about the dangers of “chemical submission” and the need for greater awareness and support for victims.
First Piper 