High‑Stakes Heists: Seattle Man Allegedly Targets Homes of NFL & MLB Stars
A Bold Pattern Emerges
In early 2025, Seattle’s affluent neighborhoods became scenes of brazen burglaries—this time, with a twist: the homes of high-profile athletes were being breached. On June 7, Seattle’s King County Prosecuting Attorney announced that 21-year-old Earl Henderson Riley IV stands accused of orchestrating a series of high-value burglaries at the residences of current and former NFL and MLB stars .
The Accused: Earl Henderson Riley IV
Riley, described by prosecutors as the ringleader, faces multiple charges: residential burglary (both occupied and unoccupied homes) and first-degree robbery . He reportedly began his crime spree in February 2025 and is currently held on $1 million bail in King County Jail. Authorities say Riley is expected to enter a plea at his June 16 arraignment .
The Targets: Who Was Hit?
• Luis Castillo (Seattle Mariners)
In one alleged incident this spring, luxury Louis Vuitton merchandise valued at over $6,000 was stolen from the home of starting pitcher Luis Castillo
• Julio Rodríguez (Seattle Mariners)
Center fielder Julio Rodríguez reportedly lost more than $194,000 in high-end purses and jewelry during a break-in while he was on the road . Police documents reveal his girlfriend was home during the incident, barricading herself in a bathroom as the intruders stole items from the bedroom .
• Richard Sherman (Former Seahawks Cornerback)
Watch thefts amounting to over $100,000 are alleged from Sherman’s house. In that case, a person was reportedly inside the home at the time, pushing the charge to first-degree robbery .
• Blake Snell (Dodgers Pitcher)
Though nothing appears to have been stolen from Snell’s house, Riley allegedly broke in while Snell was away with his team .
• Edgar Martínez (Mariners Hall‑of‑Famer)
There was also an attempted burglary at Martínez’s residence, though no details have been released about theft results .
The Investigation: A Multi‑Jurisdiction Effort
The King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, in coordination with at least six police jurisdictions, conducted a months-long investigation beginning in February 2025 . According to Senior Deputy Prosecutor Gary Ernsdorff, Riley is believed to be just one figure in a ring; authorities continue to pursue leads and plan further charges .
Their case also hinges on tangible evidence: stolen goods recovered from Riley’s relatives and other locations tied to him . A distinctive vehicle—a dark-colored Jeep Grand Cherokee with unique wheels and chrome accents—was also linked to several of the alleged incidents .
The Bigger Picture: Athletes Under Siege
This Seattle case reflects a growing national trend: burglaries of professional athletes’ homes have soared recently.
Prior Incidents: Earlier this year, former NFL star Richard Sherman experienced a terrifying home invasion when armed men forced entry while his family was present—a year before Riley’s arrest .
Federal Warnings: In late 2024, both the FBI and NFL issued warnings that organized theft rings were targeting high‑value properties during athletes’ travel seasons .
Other Victims: Household names like Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Joe Burrow, Luka Dončić, and others have also been targeted, with some linked to international theft rings, including groups of Chilean nationals charged in Florida .
Athletes are particularly vulnerable due to high-profile lifestyles, valuable homes, and predictable travel—leading criminals to view their properties as prime targets.
Community & Legal Fallout
King County Prosecuting Attorney Leesa Manion emphasized the broader importance of the case:
> “All people deserve to feel safe in their homes, and our office will continue to hold people accountable for criminal behavior” .
The strategic leaks from police and prosecutors—such as arresting the ringleader and admitting ongoing investigation—serve both legal and community objectives: dismantling crime networks and reassuring public confidence.
Local media, like KOMO News, reported emotional details from the Rodríguez case—highlighting not just the monetary, but psychological impact when loved ones are present during invasions .
What’s Next?
Case Progress: Riley’s arraignment is expected on June 16. With solid physical evidence—stolen goods and the suspicious vehicle—prosecutors are well-positioned to pursue convictions .
Broader Probes: Authorities express confidence that more arrests are coming. They’re actively tracing communications, financial activity, and possible accomplices .
Security Response: Professional leagues (NFL, MLB, NBA) have ramped up safety protocols and alerts. Teams are advising players on enhanced home security, awareness of travel schedules, and coordination with local law enforcement
Implications & Insights
• Wealth + Visibility = Risk
The case underscores how wealth and celebrity can invite intrusive crime. The value of looted goods—luxury handbags, designer watches, jewelry—reveals a clear motive: high-end resale.
• Organized Crime is Evolving
These thefts show coordination: surveilling schedules, targeting empty homes, and potentially using vetted crew members. The 2010s saw similar trends, but today’s raids reveal more planning and networked execution .
• Legal Cooperation is Key
Multi-jurisdictional cooperation—across counties, state lines, and federal agencies—is crucial. The Seattle case aligns with previous federal efforts against athlete-targeting rings .
• Psychological Toll Matters
Beyond stolen items, the victims’ trauma—especially the fear and violation of home—can be profound. Rodríguez’s girlfriend barricading herself and Sherman’s wife defending their children spotlight the emotional danger
Earl Henderson Riley IV’s arrest brings spotlight to a disturbing development: pro athletes are now prime targets for increasingly organized, skilled burglary rings. As the legal process unfolds with Riley’s June arraignment, prosecutors are broadening the investigation to other suspects. Meanwhile, law enforcement and leagues are taking action, advising vigilance and security among players.
Ultimately, this isn’t just a Seattle crime story—it’s a symptom of a disturbing national pattern. Wealth and high-profile public presence demand greater safety measures and stronger legal alliance to protect those who entertain and inspire millions.
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