Zacariah Boulares, an 18-year-old from Hounslow, has been sentenced to 22 months in jail following a series of thefts and an assault across London, including a violent incident involving Bridgerton actress Genevieve Chenneour. The Metropolitan Police described Boulares as a “prolific thief” who deliberately targeted vulnerable individuals.
On February 18, Boulares stole a bag from a blind couple, aged 50 and 54, who were dining with their son at a restaurant on Kensington High Street. Officers noticed Boulares acting suspiciously as he exited the restaurant. Although he escaped after discarding the stolen bag in nearby bushes, police were able to recover the couple’s belongings. Boulares was arrested at his home on February 21—his 18th birthday. As he attempted to flee through a window, he reportedly told officers, “I specifically target vulnerable people.”
Investigators later linked Boulares to two additional crimes. On January 30, security footage showed him and an accomplice—both with their faces covered—stealing a handbag from a 30-year-old woman on Kingley Street. The stolen bank cards were used to purchase clothing and other merchandise.
On February 8, surveillance video captured Boulares trying to steal Chenneour’s phone while she was seated in a restaurant, also on Kensington High Street. During the struggle, Chenneour reported being threatened with a knife and sustained a head injury. Boulares fled before police arrived.
Chenneour, known for her role as Miss Clara Livingston in Netflix’s Bridgerton, said the incident left her traumatized and forced her to leave London. “I now experience intense anxiety, flinching when people come close to me and hypervigilance, particularly when walking alone or in public,” she said in a statement to the BBC.
Boulares pleaded guilty to the charges on May 29 at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. Police Superintendent Owen Renowden noted the serious impact of Boulares’ actions on victims, stating, “His behaviour showed a blatant disregard for others and their belongings… I commend the determination of officers who brought him to justice.”
