Criminal rings from South America are breaking into the residences of professional athletes, prompting the FBI to issue a nationwide security alert.
Key Facts:
– The FBI warns sports leagues after a rise in burglaries targeting NFL and NBA players.
– Athletes’ homes are sought for high-end items like jewelry, luxury accessories, and cash.
– Luka Doncic is the latest victim, with his home burglarized while he was away.
– Other affected players include Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Travis Kelce, Bobby Portis, and Mike Conley Jr.
– Organized groups use social media and advanced technology to track athletes’ schedules and disable security systems.
The Rest of The Story:
These break-ins are happening when players are traveling for games, leaving their homes unattended.
Investigators say thieves rely on posted photos, public schedules, and even real-time updates from social media to know when players are away.
The FBI urges athletes to secure their valuables, limit social media sharing of personal details, and watch for unusual behavior near their homes.
Officials also recommend having extra security measures in place to deter would-be intruders who use sophisticated methods to bypass alarms.
FBI warns pro sports leagues following string of burglaries targeting athletes' homes https://t.co/O4X2HFEagy
— CBS Mornings (@CBSMornings) December 31, 2024
Commentary:
Some see these crimes as part of a larger issue tied to President Biden’s current border policies, believing that lax enforcement has made it easier for criminal groups to enter the United States.
Tren de Aragua, a Venezuelan gang, now operates in 18 states, specifically targeting wealthy public figures like professional athletes.
Supporters of tougher immigration laws suggest that a new Trump administration would take a more forceful approach.
They say a crackdown on Venezuelan gangs is long overdue and that decisive federal action on immigration is needed to protect both high-profile and everyday citizens.
The Bottom Line:
Professional athletes have become prime targets for high-level theft rings, and the FBI is on high alert.
READ NEXT: Nine Million Workers Across 21 States to Get a Pay Raise on January 1
Many believe that stricter policies and more proactive law enforcement are key to preventing similar crimes.