South American gangs target NFL stars in high-profile robberies

Robert Besser
14 Feb 2025, 02:04 GMT+10

For months, thieves linked to South American gangs have been stealing jewelry and cash from the homes of famous athletes, including NFL stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce
These criminals use advanced tactics like drones, signal jammers, and disguises as delivery drivers or workers to bypass security in gated neighborhoods, according to warnings from the NFL and NBA
Recently, police have arrested several suspects in connection with these robberies. Investigators found stolen sports memorabilia, jewelry, and artwork hidden in storage units in New Jersey

TRENTON, New Jersey: For months, thieves linked to South American gangs have been stealing jewelry and cash from the homes of famous athletes, including NFL stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce.

These criminals use advanced tactics like drones, signal jammers, and disguises as delivery drivers or workers to bypass security in gated neighborhoods, according to warnings from the NFL and NBA.

Recently, police have arrested several suspects in connection with these robberies. Investigators found stolen sports memorabilia, jewelry, and artwork hidden in storage units in New Jersey.

In January, police stopped a group of Chilean men in Ohio. Last week, they were charged with stealing nearly US$300,000 worth of designer bags, watches, and jewelry from Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow's home. A federal complaint included photos showing one suspect wearing a necklace with Burrow's jersey number, which he had worn during interviews.

"These men are likely just the beginning," said Kenneth Parker, a U.S. Attorney in Ohio, who believes they are part of a larger South American crime ring that has been robbing luxury homes across the country for years.

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