A series of home burglaries targeting high-profile athletes, including Kansas City Chiefs stars Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes, has been linked to a South American crime ring, according to law enforcement sources.

Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis experienced a burglary on November 2, 2024, during a game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, resulting in the loss of several prized possessions.

In response to the rising threat, the NFL issued a memo to team security directors and the players' union, emphasizing the need for enhanced security measures for players.

The memo recommends comprehensive home security systems, solid exterior doors with deadbolts, and the use of trusted house sitters to protect against such crimes.

Players are also advised to enhance their social media privacy by avoiding real-time updates about their whereabouts and refraining from showcasing valuable items online.

The burglars reportedly track players' schedules and social media activities to determine when homes are empty, often striking during games.

Security expert Mike Barbieri noted that recent renovations on athletes' homes may have provided insider knowledge that criminals exploited, possibly indicating connections to organized crime.

Portis has publicly offered a $40,000 reward for information regarding his stolen possessions, highlighting the personal impact of these crimes on athletes.

The NFL and other leagues received a briefing from the FBI about these security concerns on November 15, 2024, underlining the seriousness of the situation.

In addition to Mahomes and Kelce, former Minnesota Vikings player Linval Joseph, now with the Dallas Cowboys, has also been a victim of this crime wave.

This crime spree is characterized as a transnational operation, with authorities exploring the possibility of local perpetrators being involved due to the high-profile nature of the victims.

The Leawood Police Department has stated that while they cannot comment on ongoing investigations, they are committed to following all leads to ensure public safety.