Dak Prescott, the star quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys, has recently found himself entangled in a troubling trend that has been sweeping through the NFL: a crime ring targeting high-profile athletes. This alarming situation escalated when over $40,000 worth of items were stolen from his fiancée, Sarah Ramos, just days after Christmas. Unfortunately, this was not an isolated incident, as another Dallas sports figure, Luka Dončić of the Mavericks, was also victimized shortly thereafter.
The theft occurred on December 26, when Ramos parked her car outside a gym while she attended a Pilates class. In a rush to escape the rain, she forgot to lock her car door. When she returned, she discovered that luxury items, including designer handbags from brands like Chanel, YSL, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Prada, had been stolen. Additionally, cash and computer software were taken, leaving her to deal not only with the loss of her belongings but also with the distress of her credit cards being used elsewhere.
The police report revealed that Ramos was caught off guard by the theft, as she hurriedly entered the gym without securing her vehicle. This situation reflects a growing concern among professional athletes, who are increasingly becoming targets for organized crime. Just a day later, on December 27, Dončić’s home was also broken into, with thieves making off with over $30,000 in valuables while he was away playing an NBA game.
String of Break-ins
The recent burglaries in Dallas are part of a larger pattern affecting athletes across the country. In October, NFL stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce were both targeted in separate incidents. The FBI has identified these break-ins as part of a sophisticated crime ring that appears to be systematically targeting professional athletes. Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, Minnesota Timberwolves guard Mike Conley Jr., and Milwaukee Bucks forward Bobby Portis have also reported similar experiences.
What makes these crimes particularly alarming is the level of planning involved. The FBI has issued warnings, stating that these organized theft groups use both physical and technical surveillance to monitor athletes’ homes. They often rely on public information and social media to gather intelligence about where valuable items are stored. This meticulous approach allows them to execute burglaries quickly and efficiently, often while the victims are away at games or traveling.
FBI Statement on Pro Athlete Burglaries
The FBI has released an information bulletin addressing the growing trend of burglaries targeting professional athletes. They noted, "These homes are targeted for burglary due to the perception they may have high-end goods like designer handbags, jewelry, watches, and cash." The agency also highlighted the importance of vigilance, urging athletes to report any suspicious activity and to avoid sharing too much personal information on social media.
In a report seen by news outlets, the FBI confirmed that at least nine professional athletes’ homes were burglarized between September and November 2024. The break-ins typically occurred while the athletes were engaged in games, leaving their homes vulnerable to theft.
Eerie Surveillance
Criminals are not just acting on impulse; they are conducting thorough surveillance before executing their plans. The FBI has indicated that these organized theft groups are skilled at bypassing alarm systems, using Wi-Fi jammers to disable security devices, and obscuring their identities. Security expert Mike Barbieri emphasized the sophistication of these operations, suggesting that they resemble a cartel-like structure. "If you have a particular individual that’s an athlete or a wealthy CEO, you can find out just about anything you need to know about these people online," he explained.
Barbieri also pointed out that many of these burglaries are planned weeks in advance. He raised concerns that individuals working on home improvement projects might be leaking information to these criminal organizations. This highlights the need for athletes to be cautious about who they allow into their homes and to ensure their security measures are robust.
What Can Athletes Do?
In light of these incidents, the NFL has taken proactive steps to protect its players. The league has issued alerts to team security directors and the players’ union, urging them to be vigilant. Players are reminded to install security systems, keep valuables out of sight, and avoid posting real-time updates on social media.
As the crime wave continues, the NFL community is rallying together to protect its members. The message is clear: professional athletes must remain aware of their surroundings and take necessary precautions to safeguard their homes and belongings.
In a world where fame can attract unwanted attention, the safety of athletes is paramount. The recent string of burglaries serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that come with success. As Dak Prescott and others navigate this troubling landscape, it’s crucial for them to stay informed and proactive in their security measures. After all, protecting what they have worked so hard for is not just a personal responsibility; it’s a necessity.
