Dominique Pelicot and the Mazan Rape Trial: Key Moments Revealed

Dominique Pelicot Testifies in Court

Dominique Pelicot, a retired 71-year-old accused of drugging and delivering his wife to strangers for nearly a decade, appeared in court this Tuesday morning. Dressed in a gray fleece and seated on a cushioned chair, Pelicot appeared fatigued, having been diagnosed with various ailments since September 6, according to his attorney Me Béatrice Zavarro.

Health Issues and Court Proceedings

During the hearing, court president Roger Arata confirmed Pelicot suffers from a kidney stone, urinary infection, and a possible prostate issue. The judge began the session by reading a report prepared by doctors after examining Pelicot. "Physically and mentally, the accused is fit to appear. A series of measures were proposed, including rest breaks every 15 to 20 minutes after 90 minutes of hearing, alongside equipment like a chair, water supply, mattress, and pillow so Mr. Pelicot can rest during those pauses," the president explained.

Emotional Statements Made by Pelicot

For the first time in the three weeks of hearings, Dominique Pelicot addressed the court, speaking directly to his ex-wife, Gisèle Pelicot. "I blame her for absolutely nothing; I was very happy with her. She was the opposite of my mother, completely rebellious," he tearfully admitted. "I have never touched my children or grandchildren. I am a rapist, like those concerned in this room. They knew everything. They cannot say otherwise. She did not deserve this, I acknowledge it." The accused broke down in tears and reached for a handkerchief.

Yesterday, after refusing to leave his cell, Pelicot was ordered by the president to have two doctors assess his health conditions. The previous evening, Me Zavarro indicated Pelicot might finally appear in court thanks to "time management measures with breaks" to ensure that hearings are not too lengthy.