Paris Court to Deliver Verdict in Kim Kardashian Jewellery Heist Case

A verdict is expected today in the high-profile trial of ten suspects accused of robbing US celebrity Kim Kardashian of £10 million worth of jewellery during Paris Fashion Week in 2016.

The defendants—nine men and one woman—are accused of executing or assisting in the armed robbery that left Kardashian tied up at gunpoint in her hotel room. Prosecutors are seeking 10-year prison terms for four main suspects, while others face six to eight years for being accessories.

Dubbed the “grandpa robbers” by French media due to their advanced age and health issues, the suspects include 69-year-old Aomar Ait Khedache and 71-year-old Yunice Abbas, both of whom have admitted involvement. However, Khedache, now deaf and mute, denies leading the operation.

The trial, which began on April 28, has challenged the idea that the ageing suspects are no longer a threat. Prosecutor General Anne-Dominique Merville urged the court not to overlook the seriousness and violence of the crime, highlighting the lasting trauma inflicted on Kardashian.

During her five-hour testimony last week, Kardashian fought back tears as she recalled the terror of the ordeal and the emotional loss of sentimental items, including a watch gifted by her late father. She said she forgave Khedache but noted the trauma remains.

The robbery also left another victim: night receptionist Abderrahmane Ouatiki, who was forced to assist the robbers and has since suffered PTSD and abandoned his studies in France.

The stolen jewellery, including a $4 million engagement ring, was never recovered. A verdict is expected by the end of Friday.