“Grandpa Robbers” Face Trial Over 2016 Kim Kardashian Paris Heist: $11M Jewelry Theft Revisited

Aging Suspects, Dubbed “Easy” Thieves, to Stand Trial for Daring Fashion Week Robbery

Trial Begins: Key Details
Ten suspects, including men in their 60s and 70s nicknamed the “Grandpa Robbers,” will stand trial in Paris starting April 28 for the infamous 2016 armed robbery of Kim Kardashian. The reality star, who will testify in person on May 13, was robbed of $11.4 million in jewels, including a 20-carat diamond engagement ring from ex-husband Kanye West. A verdict is expected by May 23.

The Heist: A Recap of the “Crime of the Century”

On October 3, 2016, during Paris Fashion Week, masked men posing as police stormed Kardashian’s luxury hotel room. Two assailants held her at gunpoint, demanding her diamond ring and Rolex watch. The group tied her up, looted her safe, and fled in under 10 minutes. Key details:

• Social Media Clues: Investigators believe Kardashian’s frequent posts about her wealth and location made her an “easy” target.
• Lost Loot: A €30,000 diamond cross dropped during the escape and other items were recovered, but most jewels vanished, likely sold in Belgium.
• Getaway Gone Wrong: One suspect, Yunice Abbas (71), fled on a bicycle; another, Didier Dubreucq (69), denies being in her room.

Suspects: Aging Criminals’ “Comeback” Gone Awry

• Aomar “Old Omar” Ait Khedache (68): Admits involvement but denies leading the gang. Called the heist “easy” compared to typical robberies.
• Yunice Abbas (71): Wrote a book titled “I Kidnapped Kim Kardashian” but claims he was only a lookout.
• Pierre Bouianere (80): Too ill to stand trial; will face separate proceedings.

Prosecutors allege the group, identified via DNA evidence, sought a high-profile “criminal comeback.”

Legal Stakes: Charges & Testimonies

The suspects face charges of armed robbery, kidnapping, and organized crime membership. France’s rare jury trial format—reserved for severe crimes—underscores the case’s gravity.

• Kim’s Testimony: Expected to detail the trauma of the robbery, which she called “a life-changing nightmare.”
• Defense Claims: Lawyers argue key suspects were minor players, with no direct ties to Kardashian’s restraint.

Aftermath: Unanswered Questions

• Missing Jewels: The $4 million diamond ring and Rolex remain unrecovered.
• Cultural Impact: The heist sparked global debates about celebrity privacy and social media oversharing.