Zachary Allen sentenced after felony conviction connected to January 6 Capitol riot

The Henrico County Board of Supervisors meeting on May 27, 2025, highlighted pressing community concerns surrounding public safety and the management of group homes for formerly incarcerated individuals.

A significant topic of discussion was the recent arrest of Zachary Allen, a former participant in a group home for individuals involved in the January 6 Capitol riots. Allen, who had previously been convicted of multiple felonies and sentenced to eight years in prison, was apprehended again for burglary and destruction of property in Henrico County. This incident raised alarms about the safety of the community, particularly given that the alleged crime occurred just seven miles from the group home where he had been residing.

Residents expressed concerns over the conditions of the group home, which was established by former January 6 participants Josh Macias and Ray Chambers in Richmond's Northside neighborhood. Reports from former residents, including Thomas Tatum, indicated that the environment was unstable and unsafe, with issues of substance abuse and untreated trauma among the residents. Tatum described the facility as a "time bomb," further emphasizing the potential risks posed to both the residents and the surrounding community.

The Board's discussions underscored the need for better oversight and regulation of such facilities to ensure they do not become sources of danger. As the community grapples with these challenges, the Board is expected to explore solutions that prioritize public safety while addressing the needs of formerly incarcerated individuals.

In conclusion, the meeting served as a critical platform for addressing the implications of recent events on community safety and the management of rehabilitation programs. The Board's next steps will be crucial in shaping a safer environment for all Henrico County residents.