Dominique Pelicot, a central figure in one of France's most high-profile criminal trials, admitted in court on Tuesday to drugging his wife and orchestrating the rape of her by dozens of strangers over the span of nearly 10 years.

Pelicot, 71, who appeared with a cane and spoke through a microphone due to his health, confessed to the court, "I am a rapist."

He faces multiple charges, including rape, gang rape, and violations of privacy for recording and distributing sexual images.

The trial had been delayed last week due to Pelicot’s health issues.

Pelicot, who appeared frail and medicated, acknowledged his crimes and sought forgiveness from his wife, children, and grandchildren.

“I am a rapist just like all the others in this room,” he said. “I ask my wife, my children, my grandchildren to accept my apologies. I regret what I did. I ask for your forgiveness, even if it is not forgivable.”

The case shocked France and sparked nationwide protests in support of Gisele Pelicot, Dominique’s wife, who has become a symbol of the fight against sexual violence in the country.

Gisele, who attended the trial, received applause from spectators when she left during breaks.

Pelicot revealed that his abusive behavior was triggered by his wife’s refusal to participate in partner swaps and his own traumatic experiences from childhood. He described his actions as a "perversion" and an "addiction."

Gisele insisted on a public trial to expose the extent of her suffering and her husband's actions. She began divorce proceedings after discussing the case with investigators.

During the trial, Pelicot expressed hope that he might win back his former partner, stating, "It is important to have hope. Otherwise, it's over."

The prosecution's case includes allegations that Pelicot initially came under scrutiny for filming up a woman's skirt in a supermarket.

He allegedly used a website called Coco to arrange sexual encounters involving his wife and recorded the abuse.

Pelicot claims that a total of 72 men participated in the abuse of his wife, although 50 men aged 26 to 74 are currently on trial in Avignon.

While some defendants have admitted guilt, others have claimed they believed they were participating in a consensual fantasy arranged by the Pelicots.

Investigators have uncovered 300 photographs and a video documenting the abuse, which has been filed as evidence.

Gisele Pelicot reported memory lapses and unexplained pains, which led her to seek medical advice.

The trial is expected to continue through December, with the defendants facing up to 20 years in prison if convicted.