The trial of ten individuals accused of robbing celebrity Kim Kardashian in Paris nearly seven years ago has reached its conclusion, with a verdict anticipated imminently. The defendants, consisting of nine men and one woman, are charged with the armed robbery of jewelry valued at £10 million (approximately $13 million), including a diamond engagement ring, during Paris Fashion Week in October 2016.
In her testimony, Kardashian recounted the traumatic experience of being tied up and threatened at gunpoint, stating, "I don’t wish that kind of terror on anyone." Prosecutors have called for severe penalties, advocating for ten-year sentences for four of the suspects directly involved and lesser sentences for the remaining defendants, who are accused of being accomplices.
The court heard from several of the accused, nicknamed the "grandpa robbers" due to their advanced age, as many are elderly and suffering from health issues. However, prosecutors maintained that their age should not mitigate the severity of their actions at the time of the heist. Despite their ailments, some defendants, notably Aomar Ait Khedache, admitted to being part of the robbery but contended that their conditions should be taken into account during sentencing.
During a five-hour testimony that showcased her emotional ordeal, Kardashian expressed how the theft not only robbed her of valuable possessions but also of cherished memories tied to her late father. The incident's lasting psychological impact was also emphasized by the night receptionist, Abderrahmane Ouatiki, who experienced PTSD and left France in the aftermath of the robbery.
As the trial draws to a close, the courtroom is charged with anticipation over the forthcoming ruling, which may shed light on justice following one of the most notorious celebrity robberies in recent history.
