
Kim Kardashian To Testify In Paris Multi-Million-Dollar Robbery Trial
A-list celebrity Kim Kardashian is to testify in a Paris court on Tuesday, an eagerly awaited appearance nearly a decade after masked men robbed her at gunpoint of millions of dollars of jewellery during the French capital's fashion week.
Ten suspects have been on trial since late April over the armed robbery in 2016, which saw jewellery worth some $10 million stolen from the reality TV star and influencer.
The trial has attracted huge media attention, with close to 500 reporters accredited, and the courthouse on Paris's historic Ile de la Cite is expected to come under siege from fans hoping for a glimpse of the celebrity.
Kardashian is ready to "confront" her Paris attackers, her lawyers said last week.
"She is committed to attending in person," French lawyers Leonor Hennerick and Jonathan Mattout told AFP last week, saying she would do so "with dignity and courage".
She is due to take the stand at 2:00 pm (1200 GMT), and is expected to speak to the press afterwards.
On the night of October 2-3, 2016, Kardashian, then 35, was robbed while staying at an exclusive, discreet hotel in central Paris.
She was threatened with a gun to the head and tied up with her mouth taped.
Lawyers have not divulged what exactly Kardashian, who has been keeping abreast of developments at the trial, will say in her court appearance.
During what the French press has dubbed the "heist of the century", masked men walked away with millions of dollars' worth of jewels.
They included a diamond ring given to Kardashian by her then-husband, rapper Kanye West, and valued at 3.5 million euros ($3.9 million).
The theft was the most valuable to target a private individual in France in 20 years.
Those on trial are mainly men in their 60s and 70s with previous criminal records.
They have underworld nicknames like "Old Omar" and "Blue Eyes" that resemble those of old-school French bandits of 1960s and 1970s films noirs.
"They're quite a team," said investigator Michel Malecot.
"But they made some mistakes", he said, notably by leaving DNA that allowed investigators to identify them.
'Crying hysterically'
Sixty-eight-year-old Aomar Ait Khedache, known as "Old Omar", has admitted to tying up Kardashian but denies being the mastermind behind the robbery.
Another suspect in the dock, 71-year-old Yunice Abbas, later wrote a book about the heist.
In it he describes how his bag became caught in the wheel of his escape vehicle, a bicycle, causing him to fall off and have to scramble to shove the loot back in the bag.
Investigators said a man called Gary Madar, the brother of Kardashian's driver in Paris, tipped the suspects off that Kardashian was "in French territory".
This allegation has been ridiculed by Madar's lawyer, who remarked that 350 million online followers were already aware of the star's whereabouts.
The night of the robbery could have gone very differently had Kardashian joined her sister Kourtney and gone clubbing, an idea she entertained before deciding to stay in the hotel, the court heard last week.
Her designated driver, Michael Madar -- whose company was billing the Kardashian/West couple up to 400,000 euros per year to provide security -- had been working non-stop for 21 hours and asked a colleague to replace him for the trip to the night club.
The replacement, Mohammed Q., and a Kardashian bodyguard, Pascal D., rushed back to the hotel after Kardashian tried to call them and then failed to pick up her phone when they called back.
"I saw that the lift was on the first floor, where Kim was staying," Pascal D. told the court.
When he found her, Kardashian "was in a terrible state. She was crying hysterically", he told the court.
"I asked what had happened, and she said she'd been robbed."
Kardashian, her lawyers said, "is genuinely grateful" for the way the French authorities have handled the investigation, showing her "the utmost respect and consideration".
The US celebrity, sometimes described as being "famous for being famous", became well known in the early 2000s through TV reality shows, before launching fashion brands and appearing in a number of films.
She is among the world's most followed people on Instagram and X.
She has been named among the 100 most influential people by Time magazine, and among the most powerful women by Fortune magazine.
The trial is set to close on May 23.

Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
&w=3840&q=100)

First Post
an hour ago
- First Post
‘Can't wait': Macron says France will ban social media for under-15 in ‘coming months'
Backed by France and Spain, Greece has spearheaded a proposal for how the EU should limit children's use of online platforms as evidence shows that social media can have negative effects on children's mental and physical health read more French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday said that the country will ban social media for teens soon. The development comes months after Australia disallowed children under the age of 16 from having social media accounts. 'I am proposing banning social media for children under 15,' President Emmanuel Macron said on X on Tuesday evening. 'Platforms have the ability to verify age. Let's do it,' he added. C'est une recommandation des experts de la commission écrans : je porte l'interdiction des réseaux sociaux avant 15 ans. Les plateformes ont la possibilité de vérifier l'âge. Faisons-le. — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) June 10, 2025 STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Backed by France and Spain, Greece has spearheaded a proposal for how the EU should limit children's use of online platforms as evidence shows that social media can have negative effects on children's mental and physical health. Macron said that France would move ahead with the proposal if the bloc delays banning social media for teens. Talking to broadcaster France 2, the president said, 'We cannot wait.' Meanwhile, France will also impose a ban on the sale of knives to minors in the country, days after the murder of a teaching assistant by a 14-year-old boy plunged the country into shock. 'A 15-year-old will no longer be able to buy a knife online. That means we're going to impose massive financial sanctions and bans,' Macron said. A secondary school pupil was arrested on Tuesday after killing a 31-year-old school assistant with a knife during a bag search in Nogent in eastern France. On Wednesday, Prime Minister Francois Bayrou's office said a ban on the sale of knives to minors will be implemented by a decree issued within the next two weeks. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Speaking to broadcaster TF1 on Tuesday evening, Bayrou said that the measure would come into force 'immediately'. The list will include 'any knife that can be used as a weapon', he said. Bayrou has also called for a trial of metal detectors in schools. With inputs from agencies


Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
When power meets play: Where Trump supporters go to get a drink
When you work hard (?), you gotta play harder! Trump supporters – AKA – MAGA shouters, know the drill well. When the day job ends, they regroup and get ready for a huddle! And what can be a better place for a group huddle than a bar around the block? Hence, the rise of Butterworth's! Going by the name, it'd be a common mistake to assume that this particular establishment serves Butterbeer, a non-alcoholic drink popular in the Harry Potter universe. However, that hasn't come in the way of Butterworth's rising popularity. But what does Butterworth's offer that makes it a go-to hideaway of Trump supporters and MAGA elites? Read on to find out. In the heart of Washington, D.C., just two blocks from Capitol Hill, lies a bistro that has swiftly become the epicenter of MAGA social life: Butterworth's. Aesthetically, it might be a French-style café and bar, but at the core – Butterworth's 'claim to fame' has got to do with its very American attitude. Since its opening in October 2024, this bar has transformed from a quaint neighborhood spot into a power hub for Trump supporters, political influencers, and media personalities. The birth of Butterworth's: Butterworth's, named after its Australian-born majority investor Alex Butterworth, boasts an ambiance that melds Victorian charm with European café sophistication. The interior features plush seating, antique chandeliers, and a curated selection of art, including a nod to bullfighting culture—a symbol of risk and reward. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Eat 1 Teaspoon Every Night, See What Happens A Week Later [Video] getfittoday Undo As per Raheem Kassam, a former Breitbart editor and co-owner, who told EL PAÍS, Butterworth's is a tribute to traditions and a haven for the 'weirdos and freaks' of the MAGA movement. Over time, the establishment has become a favored spot for MAGA supporters and political figures. During inauguration weekend, notable attendees included Steve Bannon, Kash Patel, and Elon Musk. The restaurant's private rooms and curated atmosphere cater to high-profile gatherings, making it a central location for political discussions and celebrations. Beyond just a bar: The influence of Butterworth's extends beyond its walls. Butterworth's has hosted events celebrating political victories and ideological shifts. In fact, very recently, after the very public break-up between President Trump and tech billionaire Elon Musk, the establishment became the site of a celebration among Trump supporters, marking what many saw as the end of Musk's influence in Trump's Washington. Moreover, this month, Butterworth's partnered with the Kennedy Center to offer a 10% discount to ticket holders, staff, and performers, symbolizing the growing cultural influence of the MAGA movement in Washington – a collaboration that reflects the ever-growing intertwining of politics and culture in the current administration. How do you enter the eccentric world of Butterworth's? Despite its growing popularity, Butterworth's hasn't resorted to making the establishment ultra-exclusive – barring the entry of common people. Hence, you do not need any special membership to dine at Butterworth's. However, due to its popularity, especially among political figures and influencers, reservations are highly recommended. But what if you can't make it to Butterworth's? Where else will you find the Trump supporters winding down while socializing and networking? Fortunately, Washington, D.C., a city often associated with political power and influence, also serves as a backdrop for various social scenes, and Butterworth's is only one among many other establishments. Take a look. Harry's Bar at Hotel Harrington Located just five blocks from the White House, Harry's Bar has become a known hangout for Trump supporters and groups like the Proud Boys. The bar offers affordable drinks in a casual setting, making it a popular choice for those seeking a relaxed environment to discuss politics and socialize. During events like the "Million MAGA March," Harry's Bar has attracted large crowds of Trump supporters. Dirty Water (H Street NE) Dirty Water is a rare exception in a predominantly liberal city, openly supporting Trump. The H Street sports bar co-hosted debate and election night watch parties with the Washington, D.C. Young Republicans. The owner of this establishment, Luke Casey, a registered Republican, noted that the bar became a gathering spot for Republicans seeking a place aligned with their views in a city dominated by Democratic establishments. The Capital Grille (Capitol Hill) The Capital Grille is a Capitol Hill steakhouse where Republicans often gather. Politicians like Ted Cruz and Steve Scalise are among the regulars. The establishment is known for its upscale dining experience, making it a preferred spot for conservative gatherings. Bullfeathers (Capitol Hill) Bullfeathers, located near the Capitol, is a longstanding establishment frequented by Capitol Hill staffers, particularly Republicans. Its proximity to the legislative heart of the nation makes it a convenient spot for political discussions and casual drinks. The Capitol Hill Club The Capitol Hill Club is a private club for Republicans in Washington, D.C. Established in 1951, it serves as a gathering spot for lawmakers, government officials, and other members of the political establishment. Its proximity to the Capitol makes it a convenient location for political discussions and social events. 'It's Very Big': Trump Ups The NUCLEAR Ante, Orders Quadruple Nuke Output As China Watches | Watch


Time of India
3 hours ago
- Time of India
Police make 'mass arrests' in Los Angeles during nighttime curfew
Los Angeles: Los Angeles police began arresting people in the city's downtown late Tuesday, as groups gathered in violation of an overnight curfew after a fifth day of protests against Donald Trump 's immigration crackdown. Looting and vandalism in the second-biggest US city have marred the largely peaceful protests over ramped-up arrests by immigration authorities. The demonstrations, which began Friday, and isolated acts of violence prompted Trump to take the extraordinary step of sending in troops, over the objection of the state governor. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Upto 15% Discount for Salaried Individuals ICICI Pru Life Insurance Plan Get Quote Undo The protests again turned ugly after dark Tuesday, but an hour into the overnight curfew only a handful of protesters were left downtown, with police making several arrests as they warned stragglers to leave. "Multiple groups continue to congregate on 1st St between Spring and Alameda" within the designated downtown curfew area, the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD) wrote on X late Tuesday. Live Events "Those groups are being addressed and mass arrests are being initiated." Police arrested 25 people on suspicion of violating the curfew as of Tuesday evening, the Los Angeles Times reported, citing an LAPD spokesperson. The number of arrests was likely to rise as law enforcement worked to remove the remaining protesters from the area, the newspaper said. Earlier, Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass said she had issued the curfew "to stop the vandalism, to stop the looting." One square mile (2.5 square kilometers) of the city's more-than-500 square mile area will be off-limits from 8:00 pm and 6:00 am (0300 to 1300 GMT) for everyone apart from residents, journalists and emergency services, she added. One protester told AFP the arrest of migrants in a city with large immigrant and Latino populations was the root of the unrest. "I think that obviously they're doing it for safety," she said of the curfew. "But I don't think that part of the problem is the peaceful protests. It's whatever else is happening on the other side that is inciting violence." At their largest, the protests have included a few thousand people taking to the streets, but smaller mobs have used the cover of darkness to set fires, daub graffiti and smash windows. Overnight, Monday 23 businesses were looted, police said, adding that more than 500 people had been arrested over recent days. Protests against immigration arrests by federal law enforcement have also sprung up in cities around the country, including New York, Atlanta, Chicago, San Francisco and Austin. 'Provide protection' Trump has ordered 4,000 National Guard troops to Los Angeles, along with 700 active-duty Marines, in what he has claimed is a necessary escalation to take back control -- despite the insistence of local law enforcement that they could handle matters. A military spokeswoman said the Marines were expected to be on the streets by Wednesday. Their mission will be to guard federal facilities and to accompany "federal officers in immigration enforcement operations in order to provide protection." Demonstrators told AFP the soldiers "should be respected" because they had not chosen to be in Los Angeles, but Lisa Orman blasted it as "ridiculous." "I was here for the Dodger parade," she said, referring to the LA team's World Series victory. "It was 100 times bigger," she said, branding the idea that Marines were necessary as "a big show" that Trump wanted. The Pentagon said the deployment would cost US taxpayers $134 million. Photographs issued by the Marine Corps showed men in combat fatigues using riot shields to practice crowd control techniques at the Naval Weapons Station Seal Beach. Late Tuesday, Texas Governor Greg Abbott said his state would deploy its National Guard "to locations across the state to ensure peace & order" after solidarity protests. "Peaceful protest is legal. Harming a person or property is illegal & will lead to arrest," Abbott wrote on X. The Texas National Guard "will use every tool & strategy to help law enforcement maintain order." Behaving like 'a tyrant' In sprawling Los Angeles on Tuesday, it was largely a typical day: tourists thronged Hollywood Boulevard, celebrities attended red carpet premieres, tens of thousands of children went to school and commuter traffic choked the streets. But at a military base in North Carolina, Trump was painting a much darker picture. "What you're witnessing in California is a full-blown assault on peace, on public order and national sovereignty," the Republican told troops at Fort Bragg. "This anarchy will not stand. We will not allow an American city to be invaded and conquered by a foreign enemy." California Governor Gavin Newsom, a Democrat who has clashed with the president before, said Trump's shock militarization of the city was the behavior of "a tyrant, not a president." In a filing to the US District Court in Northern California, Newsom asked for an injunction preventing the use of troops for policing. US law largely prevents the use of the military as a policing force -- absent the declaration of an insurrection, which Trump has mused. The president "is trying to use emergency declarations to justify bringing in first the National Guard and then mobilizing Marines," said law professor Frank Bowman.