Trial of Dance Teacher Accused of Drugging and Sexually Assaulting Women

A man in southern France is currently facing trial for allegedly drugging and sexually assaulting multiple women, with some incidents reportedly recorded on film. Cyril Zattara, a dance instructor and self-taught hypnotherapist, has been charged with the rape of 14 women over a ten-year period, and is also accused of secretly filming approximately 20 other victims. Detained since 2021, Zattara has confessed to ten of the rape charges against him.

Details of the Trial

The trial is taking place behind closed doors in Aix-en-Provence, following a request from one of the alleged victims. This trial is expected to last at least two weeks. While some victims have chosen closed proceedings for privacy reasons, others have advocated for an open trial, expressing their desire for their narratives to be widely recognized.

Allegations Against Zattara

According to the police investigation, Zattara would allegedly slip sleeping pills into the drinks of women before assaulting them. Many of the victims were individuals with whom he had personal relationships, either as friends or partners. Investigators discovered numerous photos and videos on Zattara’s computer that depicted women in a drowsy condition during sexual encounters.

Testimony from Victims

One of the women who came forward filed a complaint against Zattara in 2019 after participating in one of his hypnosis sessions. She recounted accepting a glass of wine he provided, only to later awaken with fragmented memories of being raped and suffering from nausea. Medical tests revealed Zattara’s DNA underneath her fingernails and on her clothing, while toxicology reports confirmed the presence of potent sleep-inducing substances in her bloodstream.

Comparative Cases

This case follows the notorious trial of Dominique Pelicot, who received a 20-year prison sentence for drugging and raping his ex-wife, Gisèle, while also allowing numerous strangers to partake in the abuse over several years.

Conclusion

The trial of Cyril Zattara sheds light on the alarming issue of sexual abuse and the profound impact it has on victims. As the proceedings unfold, the complexities surrounding consent and accountability in relationships become increasingly important to address.

• Cyril Zattara faces serious charges, including the rape of 14 women.
• The trial is currently held behind closed doors at the victims’ request.
• Zattara reportedly drugged his victims and filmed some of the assaults.
• This case continues a troubling trend of high-profile sexual abuse cases in France.