Kim Kardashian Testifies in Paris Heist Trial: “I Thought I’d Die”

Kim Kardashian delivered an emotional testimony in a Paris courtroom on Tuesday, facing the suspects accused of robbing and threatening her at gunpoint during a 2016 heist that shook her life.

She recalled waking up to armed intruders in her hotel room during Paris Fashion Week, tied up with zip ties and fearing she would be raped or killed. “I have babies… I need to make it home,” she pleaded with her attackers.

The robbers made off with nearly $10 million in jewellery, including her $4 million engagement ring from then-husband Kanye West, which was never recovered. Kardashian, calm at times but tearful throughout her two-hour testimony, described the lasting trauma that forced her to rethink her public presence and security.

The accused, nine men and one woman, aged 35 to 78, face charges of armed robbery, kidnapping, and conspiracy. Eight deny involvement; two have partially confessed. Known as the “Grandpa Robbers,” several are repeat offenders, and one suspect has since died, while another is deemed unfit for trial due to Alzheimer’s.

Kardashian recounted thinking her sister Kourtney and stylist Simone Harouche, who were in adjoining rooms, would find her dead. Harouche, a key witness, described Kardashian’s panicked state after the robbers left and said the trauma led her to leave the celebrity industry entirely.

In court, Kardashian was visibly moved when the alleged ringleader, Aomar Aït Khedache, expressed remorse in a letter read aloud. “I forgive him,” she said, “but it doesn’t take away the fear and trauma.”

The trial continues through May 22, with a verdict expected the following day.