A chilling pattern of brazen robberies has finally led to a reckoning for Zacariah Boulares, now 19. His crimes, escalating in audacity and violence, have left a trail of fear and trauma across London, impacting not only his victims but also shaking their sense of security.
The story began to unfold with a terrifying encounter for beloved television personality Aled Jones. Walking along a busy Chiswick High Road, Jones was confronted by a then-16-year-old Boulares wielding a machete. The demand was swift and brutal: his £17,000 Rolex or his arm. But the threat didn’t end with the theft; Boulares chillingly warned Jones to “walk the other way or I will cut your head off.”
This wasn’t an isolated incident. Just months later, Boulares targeted Genevieve Chenneour, an actress known for her role in the hit series *Bridgerton*. Caught on CCTV, the footage revealed a desperate struggle as Chenneour fiercely defended her phone against Boulares’ attempted theft at a bustling juice bar. The ordeal left her deeply shaken, prompting her to question whether she could continue to live in London.
Boulares’s predatory behavior continued, extending beyond high-profile targets. He systematically preyed on individuals enjoying everyday moments – diners at restaurants, a blind woman – seeking “rich pickings” in affluent areas. A judge later condemned his actions, stating he displayed a disturbing willingness to use violence and a sense of entitlement to take what wasn’t his.
On August 19, 2023, Neil Tallantire became another target, this time for his Rolex watch. Boulares, armed with a machete, attempted to steal the timepiece in broad daylight. The incident, captured on CCTV, added another layer to the growing evidence against him.
Recently, Boulares appeared in Southwark Crown Court and pleaded guilty to the attempted robbery of Mr. Tallantire and possession of the machete. However, the case has been plagued by delays, stretching over two and a half years. The judge sharply questioned the Crown Prosecution Service and the Metropolitan Police, demanding a full explanation for the protracted timeline, acknowledging the bewilderment and frustration of the victim.
As Boulares awaits sentencing in June, the court will consider whether he poses a danger to the public. Psychological evaluations are underway, exploring potential diagnoses of autism and ADHD. His criminal history reveals a disturbing pattern: 12 convictions for 28 offenses, including violence, threats, and theft.
The impact of Boulares’s actions extends far beyond the stolen possessions. He has instilled fear, disrupted lives, and forced individuals to reconsider their safety in a city they once called home. His sentencing will not only address his crimes but also serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerability felt by many in the face of escalating violence.
