A French court on Thursday convicted all 51 individuals implicated in a horrifying case of drugging and rape, which turned the victim, Gisele Pelicot, into a global symbol of strength and resilience.

Dominique Pelicot, Gisele’s former husband of 50 years, admitted to repeatedly drugging her over nearly a decade, allowing dozens of strangers he met online to sexually assault her while she was unconscious. He also filmed the abuse.

The court in Avignon sentenced Dominique Pelicot, 72, to the maximum term of 20 years in prison, as requested by prosecutors. The other defendants, many of whom were charged with raping the comatose victim, received prison sentences ranging from four to 18 years—shorter than what the prosecution had sought.

In total, 47 defendants were convicted of rape, two of attempted rape, and two of sexual assault. Supporters of the victim cheered outside the courthouse as the verdicts were announced.

Several defendants argued they believed the encounters were part of a consensual roleplay orchestrated by the couple. Dominique Pelicot, however, testified that the men were fully aware of the reality. "I am a rapist like everyone else in this room," he admitted.

The case has drawn widespread attention and highlighted issues of consent and accountability, leaving a profound impact on French society.