Three Suspects Arrested in Connection with Burglaries Targeting NFL Stars and Professional Athletes

Law enforcement officials have apprehended three suspects in connection with a series of high-profile home burglaries targeting professional athletes, with arrests confirmed by Chilean authorities on Monday, May 24.

The investigation centers on a coordinated theft operation that struck residences in the United States and Argentina during 2024 and 2025. Authorities say the suspects made off with luxury watches, fine jewelry, and sports memorabilia from their targets.

Two of the three were detained following a break-in at the home of tennis legend Juan Martín del Potro, the 2009 US Open champion. This arrest led investigators to apprehend a third suspect on Saturday, May 23. Commissioner Enrique Gutierrez indicated that all three would face extradition proceedings.

"These individuals will face justice in the United States or Argentina. They had no significant criminal record in Chile, having specialised in robberies outside our borders," Gutierrez stated.

The investigation reveals a sophisticated operation in which the suspects allegedly monitored athletes' social media activity to determine when they were traveling, while simultaneously assessing the security measures protecting their properties.

Among those targeted were Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce and quarterback Patrick Mahomes. Kelce's residence was burglarized on October 7, 2024, while he was competing in an away game, with reports indicating losses exceeding $20,000 in cash. Mahomes' home was also breached as part of the wider criminal scheme.

Dallas Cowboys linebacker Linval Joseph and Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis were also reportedly victimized. The NFL distributed a security alert to its players in response to the incidents.

The burglary ring represents part of a broader international criminal enterprise, with authorities noting that seven suspected members of a South American theft organization were previously charged in connection with similar crimes.