The FBI is warning professional athletes to be vigilant … and confirming that groups of organized thieves are targeting stars' homes Monday in search of high-priced valuables.
Federal authorities issued the warning just days after the NBA superstar Luka Doncic became the latest star to have his home broken into… and explained that criminals raid big players' homes while they are away or at games.
“These homes are targeted for burglaries because it appears they may contain high-value merchandise such as designer handbags, jewelry, watches and cash,” FBI officials said ABC News.
“While many burglaries occur while homes are unoccupied, some burglaries occur while residents are at home. In these cases, individuals are encouraged to seek the assistance of law enforcement and to avoid contact with criminals as they may be armed or use violence if confronted.”
Along with Doncic…several big names from the NFL, NBA and NHL – including Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Joe Burrow, Bobby Portis Jr. And Tyler Sequins – their homes have been searched in recent weeks.
The FBI says the perpetrators appear to be South American groups using clever “preparation tactics” to get in and out of homes with goods before they can be caught.
“Organized thefts bypass alarm systems, use Wi-Fi jammers to block Wi-Fi connections and disable devices, cover surveillance cameras and conceal their identities,” officials said.
The FBI is now urging athletes to increase security, watch their valuables and limit posting on social media when they are away from home.