- South American crime groups are targeting professional athletes’ homes, focusing on luxury goods and valuables, often using social media to plan burglaries.
- At least nine athletes, including Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Joe Burrow, and Luka Dončić, have been victims, with some burglaries occurring while residents were home.
- The FBI advises athletes to limit social media activity, enhance home security, and report suspicious activity to reduce the risk of these organized crimes.
South American organized crime groups have orchestrated a series of targeted home burglaries against professional athletes in recent months, according to an FBI report. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) issued a warning to professional sports leagues about these incidents, as reported by ABC News on Monday. The thefts reportedly focus on athletes who are perceived to possess high-value items such as luxury goods, expensive jewelry, and cash.
How the Burglaries Are Planned
The FBI revealed that these groups conduct extensive preparation before striking. Using “physical and technical surveillance,” the criminals scout their targets carefully. Social media plays a major role in their strategy, allowing them to pinpoint when athletes are away from their homes. This premeditated approach gives the burglars the opportunity to strike when houses are unoccupied, ensuring minimal resistance.
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However, not all burglaries occur in empty homes. The FBI warned that some intrusions happen while residents are present, potentially leading to dangerous confrontations. The report urged individuals in such situations to immediately seek help from law enforcement rather than engaging with the criminals, who could be armed or violent.
Athletes Impacted by the Crimes
At least nine professional athletes have fallen victim to these organized thefts. High-profile NFL players like Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Joe Burrow have all experienced burglaries, while NBA star Luka Dončić was also targeted recently. Reports suggest these incidents are part of a larger pattern tied to transnational crime rings operating across the United States.
In November, the NFL issued a security alert to its players, warning them about the risk of home invasions. Sources close to the situation told NFL Network that these crimes are “legit” and appear to be executed by an organized group. Over the past several weeks, the network reported, NBA and NFL players have become primary targets in a nationwide crime spree.
What Athletes and Law Enforcement Are Doing
The FBI is actively investigating the crime groups behind these thefts and has urged athletes to take extra precautions. Professional players are advised to limit their social media posts detailing their whereabouts and to strengthen home security systems. Meanwhile, law enforcement continues to monitor the situation closely, as these burglaries highlight a growing threat to high-profile individuals in the public eye.
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By maintaining heightened awareness and working with authorities, athletes and their families aim to reduce their vulnerability to such organized crimes. The FBI has yet to provide further comment but continues to track the activities of these transnational crime rings.
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