In October 2016, robbers dressed as police officers broke into Kim Kardashian’s luxury apartment in Paris. It happened during Paris Fashion Week. The masked men tied her up using zip-ties and stole $6 million worth of jewelry. They threatened her with a gun and fled the scene. The crime shocked fans and the fashion world.

Ten Accused Now Face Justice

Now, nine men and one woman are on trial in Paris. The court will announce the verdict on Friday. They face serious charges such as armed robbery, kidnapping, and gang involvement. If convicted, they could receive life sentences.

Mastermind or Not? Aomar Aït Khedache at the Center

Authorities say 70-year-old Aomar Aït Khedache led the gang. He has a long criminal history in Paris. Investigators found his DNA on the zip-ties used to bind Kardashian. That discovery helped crack the case. Moreover, wiretaps captured him giving orders, recruiting team members, and planning to sell the jewels in Belgium. But none of the stolen items were recovered. Khedache denies leading the operation. He claims he followed a man called “X” or “Ben.” However, prosecutors believe this person never existed.

“Grandpa Robbers” Enter Courtroom

The French media called the accused “les papys braqueurs,” meaning “grandpa robbers.” Some walked with canes. Others wore orthopedic shoes. A few could barely hear or speak and had to follow the trial on a screen. Still, prosecutors warned the court not to be fooled. They said, “Don’t be seduced by soft appearances,” and emphasized the gang’s criminal experience.

Kardashian Delivers Powerful Testimony

Earlier this month, Kim Kardashian took the stand. She described the terrifying moment when the robbers tied her hands and pushed her onto the bed. “I absolutely did think I was going to die,” she said. “I have babies. I have to make it home. They can take everything. I just have to make it home.” She said they dragged her into a marble bathroom and told her to stay quiet. After the robbers escaped, she managed to free herself by rubbing the tape off her wrists against a sink. Then she hid, barefoot and shaking, with a friend.

The Heist Changed Celebrity Culture

Before the robbery, Kardashian saw Paris as her peaceful getaway. She often walked the streets at night and stopped for hot chocolate. But everything changed after that night. The robbery made many celebrities rethink how they used social media. Kardashian had always shared her exact location and showed off her jewelry. But afterward, she stopped posting in real time and took a long break from Paris. She later said, “People were watching… They knew where I was.”

Lawyers Ask for Leniency, Prosecutors Push for Punishment

Defense lawyers have asked the court to consider the age and health of the accused. They say the men are too old and sick for harsh punishment. However, prosecutors strongly disagree. They argue that age doesn’t excuse serious crimes. According to them, the group’s experience in crime matters more than their age or condition.

Final Words Before Deliberation

On Friday morning, the accused will speak one last time. After that, the panel of three judges and six jurors will begin their discussion. They need a majority vote to reach a final decision. This trial has taken years to reach court. Still, it shows France’s dedication to a full and fair legal process.

Kardashian Hopes for Closure

The robbery left a lasting mark on Kardashian. She once said, “This experience really changed everything.” Now, she hopes the court’s decision will bring her a sense of peace.