The trial for the notorious 2016 heist that targeted Kim Kardashian during Fashion Week began Monday in Paris. Ten individuals, including nine men and one woman, face charges of robbery and kidnapping after robbing Kardashian at gunpoint and stealing millions of dollars in jewelry. Two defendants have acknowledged their involvement, while the others have denied the charges.
The trial started with the selection of a six-member jury and three magistrates—a process used for serious crimes in France. Kardashian is scheduled to testify in person, with her appearance expected on May 13. She has previously detailed the terrifying ordeal, recalling how she feared for her life during the robbery.
In a 2020 interview on David Letterman’s Netflix show, Kardashian spoke emotionally about her experience, recalling thoughts of impending death and a desperate plea for the safety of her family. “What is happening? Are we gonna die?” she said during the attack.
Initially, twelve individuals were expected in the defendants’ box. However, one has died, and another is too ill to stand trial. According to the investigation, five of the defendants were present during the robbery.
The media has dubbed the robbers the “Granddad Robbers” due to the advanced age of the main suspects, who have long criminal histories, including bank robbery. Kardashian was forced into a bathroom and bound with tape during the robbery. After the attackers fled on foot and bicycles, she managed to free herself and contact her sister.
The robbers made off with millions in jewelry, including a $6 million ring, though only one item, a diamond cross, has been recovered. DNA evidence has linked two defendants to the crime, with one of them, 68-year-old Aomar Ait Khedache, identified as the alleged ringleader. Khedache’s genetic profile was found on the tape used to gag Kardashian.
The investigation revealed that the robbers resold the stolen jewelry in Antwerp, Belgium, and provided information about Kardashian’s whereabouts. Despite his denials, Didier Dubreucq, 69, was captured on CCTV and had numerous contacts with the other defendants, suggesting his involvement.
The trial, which will continue through May 23, is expected to shed more light on the events of that fateful night and bring justice to the victims.
Source: Swifteradio.com
