Paris court finds 8 people guilty in 2016 Kim Kardashian robbery
After nearly a decade since the infamous robbery of Kim Kardashian during Paris Fashion Week, a Paris court reached a verdict on Friday, finding the ringleader and seven other individuals guilty of the crime. The court acquitted two of the 10 defendants, with sentences ranging from prison terms to fines.
The ringleader, Aomar Aït Khedache, 69, received the stiffest sentence of eight years imprisonment, with five of those years suspended. Three others involved in the robbery received seven years, five of which were also suspended. Khedache, who arrived at court using a stick and hiding his face from cameras, was linked to the crime through DNA evidence found on the bands used to bind Kardashian.
Wiretaps played a crucial role in cracking the case, capturing Khedache giving orders, recruiting accomplices, and arranging to sell the stolen diamonds in Belgium. Despite their efforts to evade justice, the only piece of jewelry ever recovered was a diamond-encrusted cross dropped during the escape.
The robbery took place on the night of October 2, 2016, when a group of individuals disguised as police officers forced their way into the luxurious Hôtel de Pourtalès, where Kardashian was staying. They bound her with zip ties at gunpoint and made off with her jewelry, prompting a reevaluation of security measures among celebrities.
The accused, dubbed “les papys braqueurs” or the grandpa robbers in France, appeared in court in various states of physical health, with some wearing orthopedic shoes and leaning on canes. Despite their appearances, prosecutors warned against underestimating the seriousness of their crimes. The defendants faced charges including armed robbery, kidnapping, and gang association.
The verdict serves as a reminder that justice can prevail even after many years have passed. The case of Kim Kardashian’s robbery will forever be etched in history as a cautionary tale for both celebrities and law enforcement agencies.
