A French court on Thursday found Dominique Pelicot guilty and sentenced him to 20 years in prison for repeatedly drugging and raping his ex-wife Gisèle Pelicot over a nine-year period from 2011 and inviting dozens of men to rape her unconscious body in their home.

The retired electrician and former estate agent was also found guilty of making sexual images of his daughter Caroline and the wives of his sons.

The five judges also found the 50 other men on trial guilty. Some of their sentences were lower than those that had been suggested by the state prosecutor.

In an act of immense bravery Gisèle waived her right to anonymity so that Dominique and the names of the 50 men accused of raping her could be made public.

The case has gripped France, prompting discussion on misogyny, sexual abuse and the country’s laws around rape and it has made Gisèle a national hero, particularly among the thousands of women who turned up each day to the court to support her.

Laura Gozzi was in court in Avignon every day reporting for the BBC and she tells In the News about the case and how the details unfolded in the court.

Presented by Bernice Harrison. Produced by Suzanne Brennan.

If you have been affected by sexual violence, you can contact the 24-hour Rape Crisis Centre helpline at 1800 778888 for free, confidential and non-judgemental support

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