FBI Warns Sports Leagues of Crime Organizations Targeting Professional Athletes

The FBI has issued a warning to sports leagues regarding crime organizations targeting professional athletes, following a series of burglaries at the homes of prominent NFL and NBA players.

Athletes’ homes are being singled out due to the belief that they may contain high-end goods such as designer handbags, jewelry, watches, and cash, according to a Liaison Information Report obtained by ABC News.

Both the NFL and NBA have taken action by sending out security alerts to their players in light of the break-ins, some of which occurred while players were away with their teams for road games. The NFL’s alert highlights that homes of professional athletes in various sports are increasingly being targeted for burglaries by organized and skilled groups.

The most recent victim of a home burglary is Luka Doncic of the Dallas Mavericks. Lara Beth Seager, Doncic’s business manager, disclosed to multiple media outlets that there was a break-in at his home. Fortunately, no one was present during the incident on Friday night, and Doncic has filed a police report.

Notable NFL quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes of Kansas City and Joe Burrow of Cincinnati, along with Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce, have also fallen prey to these crimes. In the NBA, players such as Bobby Portis of Milwaukee and Mike Conley Jr. of Minnesota have reported similar incidents.

According to the FBI report, organized theft groups from South America leverage publicly available information and social media to track athletes’ routines and movements. These groups utilize advanced technology to bypass alarm systems, disrupt wireless internet connections, deactivate devices, obscure security cameras, and conceal their identities.

Athletes are urged to remain vigilant by reporting any suspicious activity, maintaining records of their valuables and their locations, enhancing security measures, and being cautious on social media platforms. The FBI also advises athletes against sharing photos of valuable items, interior home images, and real-time vacation updates.