Eight Convicted in Kim Kardashian’s 2016 Paris Robbery
- The New York Editorial Desk - Arif
- May 23
- 2 min read
Tone & Political Bias: Center
Why: The article presents factual reporting on a criminal trial without political commentary or ideological framing.
Overview
On May 23, 2025, a Paris court convicted eight individuals for their roles in the 2016 armed robbery of American media personality Kim Kardashian. The incident, which occurred during Paris Fashion Week, involved the theft of approximately $9 million in jewelry. The defendants, dubbed the "grandpa robbers" due to their advanced ages, were found guilty of charges including armed robbery and kidnapping.
The 2016 Robbery
On October 2, 2016, Kardashian was staying at the Hôtel de Pourtalès in Paris when five assailants, disguised as police officers, entered her apartment. They bound and gagged her, placing her in the bathtub, and stole jewelry valued at approximately $9 million, including a $4 million engagement ring. Kardashian was physically unharmed but reported significant emotional trauma.
Investigation and Arrests
French authorities launched an extensive investigation, utilizing DNA evidence, surveillance footage, and phone records. In January 2017, 17 individuals were detained for questioning, leading to the arrest of 16 suspects. By 2020, prosecutors announced that 12 individuals would stand trial for their alleged involvement.
Trial Proceedings
The trial commenced in April 2025, nearly nine years after the robbery. The defendants, mostly in their 60s and 70s, faced charges ranging from armed robbery to kidnapping. One suspect died before the trial, and another was deemed too ill to stand trial. The alleged ringleader, Aomar Aït Khedache, communicated through written notes due to hearing impairments.
Kardashian's Testimony
On May 13, 2025, Kardashian testified in court, recounting the events of the robbery. She described being bound and fearing for her life. Kardashian also addressed a letter from Khedache, in which he apologized for his actions. Expressing her belief in rehabilitation, she stated, "I forgive you."
Verdict and Sentencing
The court found eight of the ten defendants guilty. Prosecutors had sought 10-year sentences for the convicted individuals. The stolen jewelry, except for one diamond-encrusted cross, remains unrecovered.
Aftermath
The robbery had a profound impact on Kardashian, leading her to change her public behavior and security measures. She ceased wearing real jewelry in public and stopped sharing real-time updates on social media. The trial's conclusion brings a significant chapter in her life to a close.
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