4 Arrested in Serial Burglaries: Possibly Link to Joe Burrow’s Home Break-In
A group of suspects arrested in connection with a series of high-profile burglaries may be linked to the December 2024 break-in at the home of Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow. Authorities are investigating whether these arrests are part of a larger trend of organized burglaries targeting professional athletes’ homes.
Suspects Apprehended Following Multi-State Burglary Spree
Four men—Sergio Cabello, Bastian Morales, Jordan Sanchez, and an unidentified fourth suspect—were arrested on January 10, 2025, in Clark County, Ohio. The Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) stopped their vehicle during a traffic check, where the suspects presented fake IDs. Once their real identities were confirmed, it was revealed that all four men were either illegally in the country or had overstayed their visas.
During a vehicle search, authorities discovered Husky automatic center punch tools, a type of device often used by the South American Theft Group to gain entry into homes. Police also found an LSU shirt and a Bengals hat, which they believe were stolen during the December 9 burglary at Burrow’s Hamilton County residence. Additionally, location data from Sanchez’s phone placed him at the scene of the burglary, linking him further to the crime.
The suspects are facing several charges, including:
- Engaging in a pattern of corrupt activity
- Participation in a criminal gang
- Possessing criminal tools
- Obstructing official business
The Break-In at Joe Burrow’s Home
The burglary at Burrow’s home occurred on December 9, 2024, while Burrow was out of state for a game. Model and social media influencer Olivia Ponton, identified as an employee of Burrow, discovered the crime scene. She found a shattered bedroom window, and the room ransacked.
Ponton contacted her mother, Diane Ponton, who immediately called 911. “Someone is trying to break into the house right now,” Diane said during the call. Law enforcement confirmed that a security officer was present at Burrow’s home during the incident but noted that the suspects fled before deputies arrived. Officers canvassed the area and obtained surveillance footage from neighbors to aid in identifying potential suspects.
This burglary aligns with a pattern described in an NFL security memo, which highlighted how professional athletes’ homes are being increasingly targeted during game days when their absence is guaranteed.
A Growing Trend: Athletes’ Homes Targeted by Organized Groups
Joe Burrow’s case is one of several recent burglaries involving high-profile athletes. In December 2024, the homes of Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce were also burglarized. According to an NFL memo, organized and skilled groups are systematically targeting athletes’ homes, leveraging game schedules to strike when properties are unoccupied.
Authorities have noted that these groups often use specialized tools, like the window punch devices found in the suspects’ vehicle, to discreetly break into homes. This systematic approach has raised concerns among law enforcement agencies and the NFL, prompting a push for enhanced security measures.
Conclusion
As authorities work to link the arrested suspects to the break-in at Burrow’s home, the case underscores the vulnerability of professional athletes to targeted burglaries. The FBI has yet to confirm its involvement, but local law enforcement is coordinating efforts to bring those responsible to justice.
The charges against the suspects, including gang-related activity and possession of burglary tools, highlight the seriousness of these crimes. Meanwhile, the NFL and law enforcement agencies continue to collaborate on improving security strategies to protect athletes and deter organized burglary groups in the future.
