• Marceau Baum-Gertner, a key suspect in the 2016 Kim Kardashian robbery, died unexpectedly just before his trial.
• He was responsible for selling the stolen goods, including Kardashian’s $4 million engagement ring, but never revealed his associates.
• The trial will continue without him, but his death leaves many questions about the full scope of his involvement.

A major suspect in the 2016 Kim Kardashian robbery, Marceau Baum-Gertner, has died unexpectedly. He was set to stand trial for his role in the $10 million heist. Baum-Gertner was 72 years old and had a long history in the Paris criminal underworld. His death occurred just before the trial, leaving many questions unanswered. Authorities were unaware of his passing until weeks later. This has delayed the case further and raised new concerns for the investigation.

Baum-Gertner’s Involvement in the Robbery

Baum-Gertner played a crucial role in the heist. He acted as the “super fence,” helping to sell stolen goods. One of the most valuable items was Kim Kardashian’s $4 million engagement ring. The ring has never been recovered, and Baum-Gertner was suspected of finding buyers for it. He was well-known for his connections in the criminal world. Baum-Gertner’s criminal activities spanned money laundering, counterfeiting, and diamond dealing. He had been convicted multiple times for similar crimes.

His Criminal History and Reputation

Baum-Gertner was a key figure in the Paris underworld. His nickname, “Nez Râpé,” meaning “Rough Nose,” reflected his hardened criminal reputation. He had been involved in numerous high-profile crimes. These included handling stolen goods, forgery, and robbery. He had a long history of criminal convictions, with 11 prior offenses. Baum-Gertner also had a reputation for being a skilled money launderer and diamond dealer. Despite his criminal background, he tried to present himself as a legitimate businessman.

The Legal Proceedings and His Death

Baum-Gertner was set to appear in court in March 2025. He was scheduled to stand trial alongside others accused of participating in the robbery. However, his sudden death on March 6, 2025, prevented him from facing trial. Authorities were shocked by his passing, as he had been actively preparing for the case. Baum-Gertner was released on bail after his 2017 arrest. He had been living in Paris and regularly reported to the police. He was determined to clear his name in court but did not live to see the trial.

The Investigation Into the Robbery

The investigation into the robbery began shortly after the heist in 2016. Baum-Gertner was connected to Aomar “Old Omar” Aït Khedache, the ringleader of the gang. Police used surveillance and tracking to follow their movements. Baum-Gertner’s phone and car were monitored, and his meetings with underworld figures were filmed. Despite this, Baum-Gertner denied any involvement in the robbery. He claimed he had never had the stolen jewels. His consistent denials made it difficult for investigators to gather evidence against him.

The Stolen Jewels and Their Fate

The stolen goods included valuable items such as Kardashian’s 18.88-carat diamond ring. The diamond was one of the most precious and distinctive items in the heist. It was bought by rapper Kanye West and had significant value. The ring was difficult to sell due to its unique characteristics, including a signature by the designer Lorraine Schwartz. Despite extensive efforts to recover the stolen jewels, they were never found. Baum-Gertner had frequent trips to Antwerp, where he was suspected of attempting to sell the stolen goods. However, no arrests were made in connection with the sale of the jewels.

Baum-Gertner’s Criminal Background

Before the Kardashian robbery, the key suspect, Baum-Gertner, had already built a reputation as a career criminal. He had been convicted 11 times for various crimes, including handling stolen goods and counterfeiting. In 2011, he was sentenced to four years in prison for his involvement in a massive jewelry heist. He had also been linked to several violent crimes. Despite his extensive criminal record, Baum-Gertner always maintained his innocence. He often claimed he was not involved in the robberies he was accused of. His last major trial occurred in 2016, where he was acquitted in a case involving counterfeit banknotes.

Baum-Gertner’s Last Days and Legal Defense

In the weeks leading up to his death, Baum-Gertner was preparing for the trial. He had been out on bail and was eager to clear his name. Baum-Gertner’s defense was that he had no knowledge of the Kardashian robbery. He claimed he never had the stolen jewelry in his possession. Despite the evidence against him, Baum-Gertner remained steadfast in his defense. However, his sudden death means these claims will never be tested in court. His death has left a gap in the investigation, with some wondering if he would have named other criminals during his trial.

Impact on the Trial and the Investigation

Baum-Gertner’s unexpected death has caused further delays in the trial. The case against the other defendants will continue, but his absence as key suspect means the full extent of his involvement will remain unclear. The French legal system has already experienced delays in bringing the case to trial. High-profile cases, including the corruption trial of former President Nicolas Sarkozy, have taken precedence. Some believe that a trial involving Kim Kardashian would have a negative impact on the tourism industry in Paris, especially with the upcoming 2024 Olympics. As a result, the Kardashian robbery case has been delayed several times.

Other Defendants and Their Role in the Robbery

The trial will continue without Baum-Gertner, but other key suspects are still facing charges. Aomar Aït Khedache, the ringleader of the gang, has already confessed to his involvement. Other defendants, including Pierre Bouianère, have been excluded from the trial due to health issues. Kim Kardashian herself will testify at the trial, offering her account of the terrifying robbery. She was held at gunpoint by masked assailants and feared for her life during the ordeal. Her testimony will be crucial in the prosecution’s case against the remaining suspects.