Man Who Targeted Gay Community for Theft and Robbery Sentenced to Over 11 Years in Prison

Find out how the police are urging other potential victims to come forward and how the authorities aim to provide closure and security to the victims and the wider gay community.

Man Who «Preyed on Gay Community» Jailed

A man who targeted gay men to steal from them has been sentenced to 11 years and six months in prison. Reda Zahri, a 22-year-old resident of Haverstock Road, NW5, pleaded guilty to three counts of burglary, one count of false imprisonment, and one count of attempting to commit robbery. His crimes involved three different victims.

The Modus Operandi

The court heard how Zahri would strike up conversations with gay men, gaining their trust and confidence. He would then proceed to target them for their belongings. Often engaging in sexual activity with his victims, Zahri would steal items without their knowledge before making his exit.

One particularly audacious theft involved Zahri stealing over £25,000 from a victim using a suitcase. His actions left the victims not only violated but also financially devastated.

Justice Served

Zahri’s criminal activities came to light when he stole items from a man he had met in Camden. The victim, resourceful and determined, managed to obtain Zahri’s Instagram handle and promptly reported it to the authorities. This crucial piece of evidence led to Zahri’s arrest on 12 May, 2022.

Initially, Zahri refused to cooperate with the police, even claiming to be a juvenile at the age of 17. However, diligent detectives suspected otherwise and traced his connections to Germany, where Zahri had resided before coming to the UK.

Leading the investigation, Detective Constable Nigel Pacquette from the safeguarding team based at Charing Cross Police Station stated, «All three of Zahri’s victims were gay men, clearly indicating that he specifically targeted members of the gay community. I hope this case sends a strong message that the police will thoroughly investigate anyone and everyone who has been a victim of crime».

DC Pacquette further urged other potential victims to come forward, emphasising that Zahri may have targeted additional individuals who have yet to find the courage to report their experiences. The police are committed to investigating all allegations thoroughly.

By bringing Zahri to justice, the authorities aim to provide a sense of closure and security to the victims and the wider gay community. The conviction serves as a reminder that such predatory behavior will not be tolerated, and those who engage in such actions will face severe consequences.