Eight individuals have been found guilty of involvement in the armed robbery of Kim Kardashian at a hotel in Paris. This incident, which took place in October 2016, has been referred to as one of the most daring celebrity heists in recent French history. The group, often called the "grandpa robbers" by the media, consisted mainly of older men, some of whom were in their 60s and 70s.
The verdict came after a four-week trial at the Palais de Justice in Paris, where a six-member jury, assisted by three judges, deliberated on the case. The court determined that the ringleader, Aomar Ait Khedache, and seven others were guilty of the robbery at the Hotel de Pourtales. While their sentences varied, none of the convicted individuals will serve time in jail due to time already spent in pretrial detention.
During the robbery, which occurred during Paris Fashion Week, the thieves, disguised as police officers, stormed Kardashian’s hotel room. They tied her up and stole jewelry valued at around $6 million, including a ring from her then-husband, Kanye West. The lead judge, David De Pas, noted the defendants’ advanced ages and the long time that had passed since the crime when deciding on their sentences. He emphasized the trauma Kardashian experienced, stating, "You caused harm. You caused fear."
Khedache, who is 69 and was seen in court using a cane, received an eight-year prison sentence, with five years suspended. His DNA was crucial in linking him to the crime scene, as it was found on the zip ties used to restrain Kardashian. Wiretaps revealed his involvement in planning the robbery and selling the stolen jewelry.
Kardashian, who was not present for the verdict, released a statement expressing gratitude to the French authorities for their pursuit of justice. She described the robbery as "the most terrifying experience" of her life, which has had a lasting impact on her and her family. She mentioned feeling forgiveness but acknowledged that the trauma would stay with her forever.
Of the nine people involved in the case, one was found guilty of illegal weapons charges, while another was acquitted. Most of the stolen jewelry remains missing, with only a diamond-encrusted cross recovered during the escape. The case serves as a stark reminder of the risks celebrities face and the lengths some will go to for fame and fortune.