New York Knicks guard Josh Hart has fallen victim to a high-profile theft, losing approximately $185,000 worth of jewelry during a recent stay at The Dominick Hotel in Manhattan. The costly items, which included two watches and a bracelet, were stolen from his duffel bag while he was attending an event with Giants quarterback Eli Manning. Upon returning to his room, Hart discovered that his jewelry case had been emptied, and as of now, no arrests have been made in connection with the incident.
This unfortunate event highlights a troubling trend in which professional athletes are increasingly targeted by thieves, especially as they share their lives on social media. In late 2024, the FBI launched an investigation into a nationwide theft ring responsible for multiple burglaries of homes belonging to celebrities and sports figures. NFL stars like Joe Burrow and Patrick Mahomes, as well as players from the Los Angeles Dodgers, have also fallen prey to similar crimes. The FBI has advised athletes to avoid sharing their travel plans online, as thieves often wait for the right moment to strike when athletes are away.
The string of break-ins has resulted in significant losses for players in the league. Most notably, Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders reported approximately $200,000 in stolen goods from his home, coinciding with his debut in the NFL during Week 11. Despite the distressing situation, Sanders managed to focus on his first professional actions on the field.
In one notable case earlier this year, four Chilean nationals were arrested in connection to the burglary at Burrow’s residence. These incidents suggest that international thieves may be involved in a coordinated effort targeting athletes, raising concerns about safety and security in the lives of these high-profile individuals.
As these events unfold, it is a reminder for athletes and other public figures to take precautionary measures regarding their security and privacy, particularly in this digital age where every movement can be tracked.