The NFL has issued [1] a security alert to players, warning of a transnational crime ring targeting the homes of professional athletes, including NFL and NBA players, according to a report by NFL Network.
The NFL issued this security alert to clubs to tell their players and staff about “organized and skilled” criminals increasingly targeting professional athletes’ homes. pic.twitter.com/EoArE8dTw0 [2]
— Dianna Russini (@DMRussini) November 21, 2024 [3]
The alert follows recent burglaries at the homes of Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, which occurred just hours apart on the same evening.
Sources revealed to NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero that this organized crime syndicate, reportedly based in South America, has been systematically targeting the homes of high-profile athletes across the United States.
The criminals reportedly exploit media reports and social media activity to determine when players are away from home for games or events.
“It’s legit,” a source told Pelissero. “It’s a transnational crime ring, and over the last three weeks, they’ve focused on NBA and NFL players, and it’s all over the country.”
The syndicate reportedly uses public records to locate athletes’ addresses and conducts extensive surveillance to plan the break-ins.
They specifically target times when players are on the road, ensuring that homes are unoccupied.
According to the report, the burglars focus on valuables like cash, jewelry, luxury watches, and designer handbags, primarily searching master bedrooms and closets.
The criminals are described as “nonconfrontational,” avoiding homes when residents are present.
The NFL warns its players to increase security in their homes following a string of recent burglaries.
Authorities are investigating whether the break-ins are a result of an international crime ring. pic.twitter.com/MMlPoJifXD [4]
— ABC News Live (@ABCNewsLive) November 22, 2024 [5]
Instead, they rely on detailed research, tracking team schedules, and monitoring social media posts from players and their families.
Public posts about travel or events have been used as indicators that homes are vacant, increasing the risk for these targeted burglaries.
In response to the growing threat, NFL security has advised players to take specific precautions to protect their homes and valuables. Recommendations include:
- Locking up valuables.
- Avoiding real-time social media updates that reveal their location.
- Installing robust home security systems, including cameras and alarms.
The NFL’s warning underscores the growing sophistication of these criminal operations and the need for heightened vigilance among players.
Athletes and their families are being urged to take these measures seriously to mitigate the risk of becoming targets.
This wave of crimes highlights the vulnerabilities faced by high-profile public figures, particularly those with predictable schedules like professional athletes.
The league’s security alert serves as a stark reminder of the importance of privacy and proactive security measures to counter the threat posed by organized criminal groups.
As investigations continue, the NFL and law enforcement agencies are working to address the issue and prevent further incidents.
Meanwhile, players are being urged to remain cautious and safeguard their homes against these targeted burglaries.
The NBA and NHL have also joined the NFL in warning players about the burglaries targeting sports stars. Watch:
Following a series of burglaries targeting sports stars, the NBA and NHL have joined the NFL in urging players to enhance their home security systems. ABC News’ @AaronKatersky [6] has the story. https://t.co/dU25se74DI [7] pic.twitter.com/hQpTGVQ1ab [8]
— Good Morning America (@GMA) November 23, 2024 [9]