On Thursday, the NFL issued a security alert to teams and the players’ union, highlighting recent burglaries tied to the homes of Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. These incidents have raised concerns regarding the safety of athletes’ residences.
The league’s memo, obtained by The Associated Press, indicates that homes of professional athletes from various sports have been increasingly targeted by organized and skilled burglary groups. Law enforcement has revealed that these criminals often plan their attacks on days when the athletes are away for games, making it crucial for players to enhance their home security measures.
Officials have observed that some burglary rings conduct thorough surveillance on their targets. They may even engage in tactics such as attempting home deliveries or impersonating maintenance workers or joggers to blend in with the neighborhood. This level of planning underscores the need for athletes to be vigilant about their security.
Burglars have utilized various methods to gain entry into homes, including side doors, balconies, and second-floor windows. They often focus on properties in secluded areas and specifically target master bedrooms and closets, where valuable items are usually stored.
In light of these security concerns, players have been advised against sharing their whereabouts on social media, particularly during game days. They are also urged to avoid posting about any expensive items, which could attract unwanted attention.
Notably, Mahomes’ and Kelce’s homes were both broken into within days of each other last month, just before and on the day of Kansas City’s 26-13 home victory against the New Orleans Saints on October 7. This high-profile game drew additional attention as Kelce’s girlfriend, Taylor Swift, was present in the stands. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported in the break-ins.
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