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A sophisticated crime wave targeting the homes of professional athletes has recently come to light, with authorities identifying South American theft rings as key perpetrators. These highly organized burglars have infiltrated gated communities, bypassed state-of-the-art security systems, and made off with millions of dollars in luxury goods. Their targets? Some of the biggest names in the NFL, NBA, and NHL, including Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Joe Burrow, and Luka Doncic.
High-Profile Heists
The alarming trend gained national attention following a string of break-ins in late 2024. Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce both fell victim in October, just days apart. Shortly after, thieves struck the home of NBA All-Star Luka Doncic, making off with an estimated $30,000 worth of jewelry. In January 2025, Pittsburgh Penguins veteran Evgeni Malkin reported a home invasion, continuing the pattern of targeted burglaries against sports figures.
The burglary at Joe Burrow’s home in December underscored the meticulous planning of these criminal networks. While Burrow was away in Dallas for a Monday Night Football game, thieves entered his Ohio residence and stole approximately $300,000 in luxury items, including designer watches and jewelry. One suspect was later seen wearing a necklace with Burrow’s jersey number in photos obtained by investigators.
The Modus Operandi
Authorities have pieced together the common tactics used by these burglary rings:
Surveillance: Criminals scout their targets by posing as delivery drivers or joggers, monitoring home access points and security systems.
Game Day Attacks: Knowing players will be absent, burglars strike when their targets are traveling for games.
Advanced Tools: Thieves have employed drones, signal jammers, and specialized glass-breaking devices to gain entry.
Fast Cash Resale: Stolen luxury goods are quickly funneled into underground markets, with some items appearing in Manhattan’s Diamond District pawnshops and storage units in New Jersey.
A Crackdown Begins
Recent law enforcement efforts have led to arrests, including a group of Chilean men in Ohio charged with the Burrow burglary. Federal investigations have also exposed a broader fencing operation in New York, where pawnshop owners were found to be laundering stolen jewelry and watches.
While these arrests mark progress, officials warn they may only represent the "tip of the iceberg." The FBI has advised professional athletes to strengthen their home security measures and limit social media posts that reveal their locations.
With the Super Bowl approaching, authorities remain on high alert, ensuring that while players battle on the field, they are not also forced to defend their homes from an unseen and insidious opponent.
Source: Fox 59
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