In January 2023, a $2.8 million jewellery heist from a high-end Sydney store was revealed to be a carefully orchestrated scam aimed at committing insurance fraud by a financially struggling owner. Michel Germani, 67, faced a jury and was accused of staging the robbery in light of over $184,000 in unpaid rent owed to the Hilton Hotel.
Germani allegedly devised the heist alongside an accomplice, intending to recover lost funds before the anticipated closure of his store. The planned event involved two men masquerading as customers who would ransack the store, empty its safes, and remove all CCTV footage. Germani subsequently filed an insurance claim for the “stolen” goods valued at $2,821,348, which was later rejected.
The trial unfolded at Sydney’s Downing Centre District Court, where crown prosecutor Cate Dobbs described the robbery as a façade, labelling it an inside job rather than a genuine crime. During the staged event, Germani and his shop assistant, Lana Al-Khoury, were forcibly restrained with cable ties while the robbers executed their plan for 11 minutes. Al-Khoury was tied to a chair in the process, later reported as “very distressed” when rescued by a security guard.
A central aspect of the trial is whether Al-Khoury participated knowingly in the scheme or was an unwilling participant, which the prosecution must establish beyond reasonable doubt. Germani has denied charges of aggravated robbery and unlawful detention related to Al-Khoury’s treatment during the fake heist, though he has admitted to orchestrating the robbery for financial gain and providing false statements to law enforcement. Helou, another accused, acknowledged involvement in staging the robbery but rejected the more serious aggravated robbery charge.
Cusumano, the third accused, is alleged to have played a lesser role, including the purchase of items used in the robbery and facilitating communications with Germani. He has pleaded not guilty to charges of financial advantage through the staged robbery.
The prosecution highlighted that Germani had previously attempted to execute the scheme on two occasions. After an initial plot collapsed, he prompted a friend for assistance, offering a financial incentive of up to $25,000 for their help. However, that friend contacted the police, who warned Germani of a potential insurance fraud at his store. Notwithstanding this warning, Germani proceeded with his plan.
The trial continues as the jury examines the evidence surrounding the bizarre plot, questioning the true nature of the events that transpired on that fateful night.