50 other men were also found guilty of taking part in the abuse, but many have been handed shorter sentences than those asked for by prosecutors. Several walked free having already served prison time.
Gisèle Pelicot waived her anonymity in an effort to help other women and force a change in society. Arriving in court on Thursday, she smiled, shook hands and waved at the hundreds of supporters gathered out the front of the courthouse in Avignon.