PARIS — The trial of ten individuals accused of a $9 million jewelry heist from Kim Kardashian began Monday as jurors were selected and witness testimonies were prepared. The case stems from a dramatic robbery that occurred in October 2016 while Kardashian was attending Paris Fashion Week. During the incident, she was reportedly held at gunpoint in a private apartment, where the assailants made off with her valuables.
The group of defendants, which has drawn considerable media attention, includes five men who allegedly carried out the robbery and others accused of conspiring or providing information about Kardashian’s whereabouts. Local media have dubbed them the “grandpa robbers” due to the older ages of several suspects, with some in their 60s and 70s. The lengthy legal process has seen one individual pass away, while an 80-year-old defendant’s case has been separated due to health issues.
Among those on trial is 69-year-old Aomar Ait Khedache, known as “Old Omar,” who is believed to be the principal orchestrator of the crime. Other notable figures include his 37-year-old son, Harminy, who allegedly served as the getaway driver, and Didier “Blue Eyes” Dubreucq, 69. Gary Madar, the brother of Kardashian’s driver in Paris, is accused of leaking details about her schedule, facilitating the crime. Christiane Glotin, 78, is also facing charges as an alleged accomplice involved in the robbery’s planning.
One defendant has openly admitted his role in the robbery. Yunice Abbas, now 72, published a book titled “I Kidnapped Kim Kardashian,” detailing his involvement and the events leading up to the heist. Abbas’s lawyer noted that his client seeks to express his remorse and clarify his perspective regarding the incident, which he acknowledges carries significant implications for his future.
In France, defendants in criminal trials do not enter explicit pleas; they can admit or contest their guilt, and the trial moves forward irrespective of their stance. Given the potential sentence exceeds 20 years, this case will be tried by a jury. French courts prohibit the use of cameras, so journalists and court artists will document the proceedings.
Kardashian is expected to appear in court on May 13, eager to recount her harrowing experience, which she has described as one of the most frightening moments of her life. In a previous recounting on her reality series, she detailed her struggle to contact emergency services in a foreign country while fearing for her life. “I was like, this is it,” she reflected on that terrifying night.
As this high-profile case unfolds, it not only highlights issues of celebrity security but also raises questions about the legal system’s approach to serious crimes involving organized groups. With the world watching, the proceedings will surely unfold layers of complexity surrounding both the defendants and the impact of their actions on Kardashian’s life.