Husband Accused of Drugging, Raping Wife for Years

In a harrowing case that has gripped France, Jezelle Pelico has courageously shared her testimony in court, detailing the unimaginable abuse she endured for over a decade at the hands of her husband, Dominique Pelico. The court proceedings began in Aeno, where Dominique Pelico and 51 other men are accused of repeatedly drugging and raping Jezelle while she was unconscious. Jezelle, who chose to abandon her anonymity, faced the media displaying remarkable strength as she recounted her nightmarish experience upon discovering photographs on her husband’s laptop that depicted her being assaulted by strangers. The distressing images were shown to her by police officers, marking a devastating turning point in her life and marriage. Dominique has confessed to drugging Jezelle, while other defendants in the case assert that they were either unaware of her unconscious state or misjudged consent based on her husband's involvement. The courtroom atmosphere grew tense, particularly following claims made by Dominique’s lawyer suggesting that some accused might dispute the nature of the acts committed. Activists and Jezelle’s daughter, who attended the trial, highlighted the critical importance of addressing the severe implications of drugging and sexual assault in society. The ongoing trial, expected to last four months, has not only exposed the horrific actions of the accused but has also ignited discussions on the need for legal reforms protecting victims of such heinous crimes.