Self-proclaimed hypnotherapist on trial in France for drugging and raping women

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete January 6, 2026 at 01:27 PM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

Cyril Zattara, a self-proclaimed hypnotherapist and dance teacher, is on trial in Aix-en-Provence, France, accused of drugging and raping 14 women over a decade. Zattara allegedly slipped sleeping pills into drinks before sexually assaulting the women, often targeting friends or intimate partners. He is also accused of secretly filming around 20 other women. Zattara has admitted to 10 rape charges and has been detained since 2021. The trial, which is expected to last at least two weeks, is being held behind closed doors at the request of one of the alleged victims. Evidence includes photos, videos, and toxicology reports indicating sleep-inducing drugs in victims' systems, as well as Zattara's DNA found on a victim.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

BBC News 30% Gisèle 40% Dominique Pelicot 50% Aix-en-Provence 60% France 70% Cyril Zattara ×590%

Keywords

drugging and raping 100% cyril zattara 90% sexual abuse 90% hypnotherapist 80% trial 70% sexual assault 60% sleeping pills 60% france 50% intimate relationships 40%