News|Sexual AssaultFrench court extends sentence of man convicted of Gisele Pelicot rapeFrench appeals court increases Husamettin Dogan’s sentence to 10 years for sexually abusing Pelicot.

A French court has upheld the conviction of Husamettin Dogan, a 44-year-old construction worker, for the sexual assault of Gisele Pelicot. The court increased his sentence to 10 years in prison, with an additional five years of mandatory treatment. This decision follows Dogan's appeal against his guilty verdict, where witnesses confirmed his awareness of Pelicot's incapacitated state during the assault.

The original case, which concluded last December, involved the drugging and subsequent assault of Gisele Pelicot, orchestrated by her then-husband, Dominique Pelicot. Dominique Pelicot received a 20-year prison sentence for his role in facilitating these crimes over a decade.

The court's decision was announced by presiding judge Christian Pasta on Thursday, with Dogan showing no reaction to the verdict. Despite the prosecutor's request to extend the sentence to 12 years due to Dogan's refusal to accept responsibility, the court settled on a 10-year term.

Video evidence presented by investigator Jeremie Bosse-Platiere demonstrated Dogan's awareness of the non-consensual nature of his actions. Testimonies confirmed that Dogan misrepresented the scenario as consensual, despite evidence to the contrary.

Gisele Pelicot's case has prompted legislative discussions in France to update the legal definition of rape, emphasizing the necessity of consent. A proposed bill is anticipated to pass in the near future, reflecting a shift towards a culture of consent.

Gisele Pelicot waived her right to anonymity to raise awareness about sexual assault and domestic violence. She was honored with the title of knight of the Legion of Honour in July, acknowledging her courage and advocacy efforts.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.