Feb 15 • 09:22 UTC 🇩🇪 Germany FAZ

Verdict Against Sex Offender: They Write About 'Driving' and Mean Raping

A German court case highlights the alarming trends in online chat groups where men exchange information on committing sexual assaults, including the disturbing reaction to the case of Gisèle Pelicot.

The case against Dapeng Z. has brought to light a disturbing trend within certain online networks, especially on Telegram, where thousands of men are sharing resources that advocate for and instruct on sexual violence. This alarming revelation follows the tragic story of Gisèle Pelicot, a woman from France who was drugged and abused by her husband over many years, only to be offered to other men for assault, sparking outrage and extensive discourse on violence against women globally. The case has intensified the scrutiny surrounding how society addresses such crimes and the imperative to safeguard women from such predatory behaviors.

In October 2025, Dapeng Z. stands trial for his actions, which illustrate how internet subcultures can serve as incubators for dangerous ideologies and criminal behaviors. The comments he made in chatrooms concerning the Pelicot case reveal a chilling lack of empathy and illustrate a broader culture of violence and misogyny that can thrive in anonymity. Clearly, the court proceedings will not only address his specific acts, but also shed light on the systemic issues that allow such heinous behavior to proliferate.

As this trial unfolds, it raises critical questions about the responsibility of online platforms, law enforcement, and society at large in combating sexual violence. The connections drawn between individual perpetrators and the collective mindset fostered in online communities underscore the need for enhanced measures to track, regulate, and ultimately prevent these types of conversations that embolden predatory behavior. The outcome of this case might influence future legislation aimed at protecting victims and holding offenders accountable for their actions while navigating the complex landscape of digital interactions.

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