Dominique Pélicot, currently serving a 20-year prison sentence for the sexual abuse of his ex-wife, Gisèle Pélicot, finds himself entangled in investigations surrounding two cold cases from the 1990s. Authorities suspect Pélicot's involvement in the 1991 rape and murder of Sophie Narme and the attempted armed rape of another property agent in 1999. Since October 2022, Pélicot has been under formal investigation for these crimes, which were consolidated into one case in September 2022.
The specialized unit for cold cases and serial crimes in Nanterre is spearheading the investigation. Investigators have amassed what they describe as significant evidence against Pélicot. Over 20,000 photos and videos were discovered on computer drives, including disturbing homemade videos of abuse filmed in various locations, including the couple's retirement home in Mazan. The victims in both cold cases share striking similarities in appearance and were approached similarly, prompting investigators to suspect a connection.
Florence Rault, an investigator with deep involvement in the case, noted:
"One has to remain cautious. Perhaps someone else committed the crime on Sophie Narme. But there are such similarities in the mode of operation, in the way the victims were approached – and the victims are so identical, too – that one can legitimately ask many questions."
Despite the mounting evidence, Pélicot's lawyer, Béatrice Zavarro, maintains that her client denies any involvement in the murder of Sophie Narme. However, she acknowledges that Pélicot admitted to meeting the other property agent linked to the 1999 case. Zavarro stated:
"He says that he is totally unconnected with the events related to Sophie Narme."
Further complicating matters, Zavarro revealed that Pélicot admitted contact with the property agent from 1999. She disclosed:
"He acknowledged having been in contact with this young woman. His DNA is there, so there’s no issue there. He acknowledged having had an altercation with her, having tried to undress her, but with intentions different from attempted rape."
The investigation led by a magistrate specializing in cold cases delves into these serious accusations with dedicated scrutiny. The similarities in victim profiles and approach raise questions about possible links between these crimes. Pélicot plans to cooperate with the investigation, though it remains unclear what specific questions or challenges he will face as the case unfolds.
