France Reels as 51 Men Stand Trial in Shocking Rape Case

Fifty-one men went on trial yesterday in Avignon, France, in a disturbing case that has horrified the nation and highlighted the role of drugs in sexual abuse crimes.

Dominique Pelicot, 71, is accused of repeatedly drugging and raping his wife over several years, while also inviting other men to do the same, sometimes on camera. Pelicot has pleaded guilty to the charges.

Dozens of other men face charges of rape in the case. Some defendants have denied the charges, claiming they believed the husband's permission was sufficient or that the victim had consented to being drugged.