Dominique Pelicot Asks for Forgiveness in Major French Rape Case

avignon - A French man who admitted to allowing his drugged wife to be raped by strangers has asked for forgiveness during his closing statement in court.

Dominique Pelicot is on trial with dozens of other men for the sexual abuse of his former wife, Gisèle, who is 72 years old. The case has shocked France and garnered international attention.

The court is expected to deliver its verdict later this week. Dominique Pelicot praised 'the courage of my ex-wife' during his closing statement and asked his family to accept his apologies.

The abuse of Gisèle Pelicot is said to have lasted for years. Her husband allegedly drugged her and invited other men to rape her. A lawyer for co-defendants previously stated that her clients were manipulated by a 'monster.'

Pelicot mentioned on Monday that he has been 'called many things' and hopes to be forgotten. 'You hold the rest of my life in your hands,' he told the judges.

Prosecutors in Avignon have demanded the maximum sentence for the 72-year-old man. They are seeking a 20-year prison term for rape. Other defendants also face lengthy prison sentences being sought against them.