French prosecutors have ordered a major new cold case investigation into the serial sex offender known as the 'Monster of Avignon', seeking to identify other potential victims of his crimes spanning decades.
A Chilling History of Abuse
The fresh probe will centre on Dominique Pelicot, 73, who is already serving a 20-year prison sentence. He was convicted in 2024 for the aggravated rape of his own wife, Gisele, in a case that horrified the nation.
Over a period of nearly ten years, between 2011 and 2020, Pelicot drugged his wife at their family home in Mazan and invited dozens of strangers to rape her while she was unconscious. In total, 72 different men were involved in the assaults. Of these, 51 stood trial, with all but one convicted for sexual offences against Gisele.
Gisele Pelicot waived her anonymity and has since become a prominent advocate for survivors of sexual abuse in France, stating after the sentencing that she shares a common fight with other victims.
Older Crimes Under the Spotlight
The Nanterre prosecutors' office near Paris confirmed the new investigation will be conducted by a dedicated cold case unit. It aims to re-examine unsolved files where Pelicot may be implicated.
He is already under formal investigation for two other serious offences. The first is the rape and murder of estate agent Sophie Narme in Paris in 1991. The second is an attempted rape in Villeparisis in 1999.
Investigators placed him under formal investigation for both historic crimes in October 2022, a legal step indicating they hold serious evidence against him.
Patterns and Denials
Lawyer Florence Rault, who represents the families in both the 1991 and 1999 cases, highlighted striking similarities in the perpetrator's methods. She noted the victims were approached in an identical manner, raising legitimate questions about a single offender.
Pelicot has partially admitted to the 1999 incident after his DNA was discovered at the scene, claiming he had an altercation with the victim and tried to undress her but with 'intentions different from attempted rape'. However, he denies any involvement in the 1991 rape and murder of Sophie Narme, claiming he never met her.
His lawyer, Beatrice Zavarro, maintains his denial regarding the Narme case. The new cold case review suggests authorities believe the full extent of Pelicot's predatory behaviour may not yet be known, prompting a wider search for justice.
