Teenage Machete Attacker Pleads Guilty to New Robbery in London
A teenager who previously threatened to decapitate TV presenter Aled Jones during a violent robbery has admitted to another attempted theft with a machete in west London. Zacariah Boulares, now 19, targeted a man in Bayswater in August 2023, just weeks after his attack on the Welsh baritone.
Series of Violent Incidents Across Wealthy Areas
Boulares, from Feltham in south London, has accumulated 12 convictions for 28 offences, including violence, weapon possession, and theft. His criminal spree began in May 2023 when he stole a £20,000 Rolex from a man in his 70s at Paddington station. In July 2023, he pointed a machete at Aled Jones on Chiswick High Road, stealing a £17,000 Daytona Rolex and threatening to cut off his head.
In February 2025, Boulares attempted to steal Bridgerton actress Genevieve Chenneour's iPhone at a Joe and the Juice in Kensington, an incident captured on CCTV. Ms. Chenneour stated the trauma made her consider leaving London. He also admitted to thefts from a blind woman and another diner in early 2025.
Court Proceedings and Delays Questioned
At Southwark Crown Court, Boulares pleaded guilty to the attempted robbery of Neil Tallantire and possession of a machete outside Waitrose in Bayswater. Judge Mark Weekes criticized the Crown Prosecution Service and Metropolitan Police for the two-and-a-half-year delay in bringing the case to court, despite CCTV evidence and Boulares spending time in custody.
Judge Weekes emphasized the need for a full explanation, noting the victim's bewilderment over the prolonged process. Boulares is scheduled for sentencing on June 19, where psychological reports will be presented, and a finding of dangerousness may be considered.
Previous Sentencing and Psychological Assessments
In July 2025, Boulares was sentenced to 22 months in prison for crimes including the attempt on Ms. Chenneour's phone and theft from a blind woman. Judge Martin Edmunds KC described his actions as a systematic pattern targeting wealthy areas for rich pickings, with a willingness to use violence.
Medical experts are assessing Boulares for possible diagnoses of autism and ADHD. He remains in custody until his June sentencing, with Judge Weekes warning that a substantial custodial sentence is expected.
The case underscores ongoing concerns about youth crime and justice delays in London, affecting victims' sense of safety in the city.
