Article text:
A crucial verdict is on the horizon in the trial of ten individuals charged with robbing Kim Kardashian of millions in jewellery nearly seven years ago in Paris. Among the defendants are nine men and a woman facing accusations of committing, or assisting in, the armed burglary that took place during Paris Fashion Week in 2016, resulting in lost items valued at around £10m (£7.55m).
The prosecution has requested a ten-year sentence for four of the main offenders, while the others could face sentences ranging between eight to six years for their alleged complicity. The court saw the defendants deliver their closing arguments Friday morning, with a decision set to be revealed later today.
Despite the defendants being older and reportedly in poor health—coined by media as the "grandpa robbers"—the prosecution has adamantly opposed the idea that these individuals pose no serious danger. Kim Kardashian herself recounted the harrowing experience of the night she was held at gunpoint, instilling fear not only for her life but also regarding potential sexual violence, leaving her traumatized.
Prosecutor Anne-Dominique Merville reminded jurors of the incident's severity, urging them not to be influenced by the defendants' age or health issues, emphasizing they were experienced criminals at the time of their offense. On the night of October 3rd, 2016, while Kardashian resided at the Hotel de Pourtales, a cohort of five men seized control of the venue, leading to a hostage situation with Kardashian and hotel staff.
Khedache, who is now 69, admitted his role in the burglary but denied being the ringleader and claimed that he did not act with violence. His legal counsel stressed his declining health, arguing that incarceration at such an advanced age would equate to a de facto life sentence. Co-defendant Abbas, expressing remorse in court, also alluded to his serious health struggles.
Among the accused was a former driver for the Kardashian family, who has denied claims that he aided the criminals. Throughout the trial, Kardashian described not only the trauma of the event but also the irreplaceable loss of jewelry carrying personal significance, including a watch gifted to her by her deceased father.
The emotional weight of the proceedings was amplified when Kardashian articulated her feelings of violation and fear. In an act of compassion, she conveyed forgiveness towards Khedache upon reading his written apology; however, she acknowledged that the trauma endured cannot be erased.
In addition to Kardashian, Abderrahmane Ouatiki, the night receptionist taken hostage, has been present during the trial and highlighted the enduring psychological impact the event has had on his life, underscoring the disparities in victim support. His legal representative advocated for justice that could restore a semblance of balance, especially for those who lack resources in such harrowing situations.
A crucial verdict is on the horizon in the trial of ten individuals charged with robbing Kim Kardashian of millions in jewellery nearly seven years ago in Paris. Among the defendants are nine men and a woman facing accusations of committing, or assisting in, the armed burglary that took place during Paris Fashion Week in 2016, resulting in lost items valued at around £10m (£7.55m).
The prosecution has requested a ten-year sentence for four of the main offenders, while the others could face sentences ranging between eight to six years for their alleged complicity. The court saw the defendants deliver their closing arguments Friday morning, with a decision set to be revealed later today.
Despite the defendants being older and reportedly in poor health—coined by media as the "grandpa robbers"—the prosecution has adamantly opposed the idea that these individuals pose no serious danger. Kim Kardashian herself recounted the harrowing experience of the night she was held at gunpoint, instilling fear not only for her life but also regarding potential sexual violence, leaving her traumatized.
Prosecutor Anne-Dominique Merville reminded jurors of the incident's severity, urging them not to be influenced by the defendants' age or health issues, emphasizing they were experienced criminals at the time of their offense. On the night of October 3rd, 2016, while Kardashian resided at the Hotel de Pourtales, a cohort of five men seized control of the venue, leading to a hostage situation with Kardashian and hotel staff.
Khedache, who is now 69, admitted his role in the burglary but denied being the ringleader and claimed that he did not act with violence. His legal counsel stressed his declining health, arguing that incarceration at such an advanced age would equate to a de facto life sentence. Co-defendant Abbas, expressing remorse in court, also alluded to his serious health struggles.
Among the accused was a former driver for the Kardashian family, who has denied claims that he aided the criminals. Throughout the trial, Kardashian described not only the trauma of the event but also the irreplaceable loss of jewelry carrying personal significance, including a watch gifted to her by her deceased father.
The emotional weight of the proceedings was amplified when Kardashian articulated her feelings of violation and fear. In an act of compassion, she conveyed forgiveness towards Khedache upon reading his written apology; however, she acknowledged that the trauma endured cannot be erased.
In addition to Kardashian, Abderrahmane Ouatiki, the night receptionist taken hostage, has been present during the trial and highlighted the enduring psychological impact the event has had on his life, underscoring the disparities in victim support. His legal representative advocated for justice that could restore a semblance of balance, especially for those who lack resources in such harrowing situations.
