**Trial Commences for Kim Kardashian's Infamous 2016 Paris Jewelry Heist**

*The trial of ten defendants accused in the shocking 2016 robbery of Kim Kardashian in Paris has begun, revealing insights into the backgrounds and regrets of those involved.*

The trial of ten individuals accused of participating in the 2016 jewelry heist involving reality TV star Kim Kardashian commenced this week in Paris. The audacious robbery saw Kardashian held at gunpoint in her opulent hotel suite during Paris Fashion Week, resulting in the theft of approximately $10 million worth of jewelry, including a $4 million diamond engagement ring from her then-husband, Kanye West.

Held in a grand court adorned with 19th Century tapestries, the proceedings have offered a revealing look at the diverse histories of the accused. The first defendant, 71-year-old Yunice Abbas, provided a sobering account of his past through a French court's standard character investigation, which integrates elements of a defendant's personal life into the case. Abbas has acknowledged his involvement in the heist, even penning a memoir titled *I Held Up Kim Kardashian*, in which he explores his motivations and the crime itself. Despite claiming he was proud of the heist initially, Abbas stated during the trial, “I regret what I did… It opened my eyes," explaining the remorse he has found through the relentless media coverage of Kardashian's trauma.

The trial also centers on Gary Madar, a 35-year-old former customer service agent for a transportation company that facilitated rides for the Kardashian entourage. Accused of passing vital information to the robbery gang regarding Kardashian's whereabouts, Madar maintains his innocence and that no solid evidence links him to the crime. Further testimonies are expected from additional defendants, including Marc Boyer, 78, who allegedly provided the weapon used in the robbery. Boyer expressed sorrow for the negative influence that his lifestyle had on his son, who is also implicated in the case.

As the trial progresses towards the anticipated testimony from Kardashian herself on May 13, court observers anticipate significant media attention. With around 400 journalists expected to cover Kardashian's appearance, logistical challenges loom for court staff.

The trial arrives eight and a half years subsequent to the heist, a delay attributed to ongoing terrorism trials that plagued Paris' judicial system, causing significant case backlogs. The health conditions and ages of the defendants have also contributed to the postponement, with one defendant having passed away and another excused from proceedings due to advanced dementia. The legal proceedings are set to unfold over the coming weeks as the court hears testimonies and evaluates the circumstances surrounding one of the most high-profile robberies in recent history.