FBI Issues Chilling Warning After Athlete Home Robberies
The Federal Bureau of Investigation is imploring professional athletes to beef up their home security after a recent string of robberies targeted high-profile players' homes.
In a new Liaison Information Report obtained by ABC News, the FBI noted that "these homes are targeted for burglary due to the perception they may have high-end goods like designer handbags, jewelry, watches, and cash." The agency reported that "organized theft groups allegedly burglarized the homes of at least nine professional athletes" between September and November 2024.
"While many burglaries occur while homes are unoccupied, some burglaries occur while residents are home. In these instances, individuals are encouraged to seek law enforcement help and avoid engaging with criminals, as they may be armed or use violence if confronted," the report read.
Among those whose homes were burglarized in recent months are Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, and Dallas Mavericks guard Luka Dončić. The criminal groups allegedly responsible for the attacks use highly specialized tactics to learn what might be inside the homes and how to enter them undetected.
"These preparation tactics enable theft groups to conduct burglaries in a short amount of time. Organized theft groups bypass alarm systems, use Wi-Fi jammers to block Wi-Fi connections and disable devices, cover security cameras, and obfuscate their identities," the report said.
Related: NBA, NFL Issue Safety Warnings to Players After String of Thefts
The FBI advisory comes after the NBA and NFL received briefings last month from the agency on the present dangers. The groups "are reportedly well-organized, sophisticated rings that incorporate advanced techniques and technologies, including pre-surveillance, drones, and signal jamming devices," according to NBA senior vice president and chief security officer Leon Newsome.
"The homes of professional athletes across multiple sports leagues have become increasingly targeted for burglaries by organized and skilled groups," the NFL added, per NBC News. "It is important for players to maintain situational awareness, practice social media safety and implement home security measures to reduce risk of becoming a target."
Related: Patrick Mahomes Speaks Out After 'Disappointing' Home Burglary
It remains to be seen if more players fall victim to these highly sophisticated robberies.