Chilean Police Arrest 3 Suspects in Athlete Burglaries Across 2 Countries
Updated
Updated · BBC.com · May 25
Chilean Police Arrest 3 Suspects in Athlete Burglaries Across 2 Countries
12 articles · Updated · BBC.com · May 25
Three suspects were arrested in Chile over a two-year burglary spree targeting high-profile athletes' homes in the United States and Argentina, with police saying they now face extradition.
A break-in at former US Open champion Juan Martín del Potro's home in Argentina led investigators to two suspects last week and a third arrest on Saturday.
Police said the group cased properties, checked security measures and tracked athletes' social media and schedules to strike when homes were empty.
Travis Kelce's home was hit on Oct. 7, 2024, with $20,000 in cash stolen; Linval Joseph and Bobby Portis were also among athletes targeted.
The case extends a wider investigation that already produced earlier arrests, after the NFL warned players that organized crews were using public records and online activity to plan break-ins.
How did a traffic ticket in Argentina help crack a crime ring targeting US sports stars?
Can millionaire athletes stay safe when their schedules are public knowledge?
Are organized theft groups from South America a new major threat to wealthy US communities?