Robbery Charges Filed Against Seattle Man Targeting Athletes’ Homes
A Seattle resident has been charged with multiple robberies involving the homes of current and former professional athletes. This incident highlights an ongoing trend of targeting well-known figures for theft.
Earl Henderson IV, 21, faces several counts related to home burglaries, including offenses occurring in both occupied and vacant properties, as reported by the Earl County Prosecutor’s office.
Authorities allege that Henderson orchestrated a series of thefts starting in February, netting over $6,000 in luxury Louis Vuitton bags from the residence of Mariners pitcher Luis Castillo and more than $194,000 in high-end wallets and jewelry from center fielder Julio Rodriguez’s home.
Additionally, he is accused of stealing watches valued at over $100,000 from the home of former Seahawks cornerback Richard Sherman, as well as attempting a robbery at the residence of Edgar Martinez, a Hall of Fame baseball player.
“Everyone deserves to feel safe in their homes. Our office will continue to hold accountable those responsible for criminal activity,” a spokesperson stated.
Recently, there has been a noticeable increase in burglaries targeting the homes of famous athletes across the U.S. It seems these players are often targeted for their valuable possessions, especially when they’re away for games.
The FBI has issued warnings to sports leagues regarding the rise of criminal organizations focused on professional athletes.
In light of the growing number of thefts, the NFL and NBA have sent out security alerts following incidents involving prominent players like Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce. A memo from the NFL noted that homes of athletes from various sports have increasingly become targets for organized, skilled groups.
Henderson is currently being held at King County Jail on a $1 million bail, and it remains unclear if he has legal representation.
The charges stem from a few months of investigation, during which the county prosecutor’s office collaborated with multiple police jurisdictions.
Senior prosecutor Gary Ernsdorf emphasized that their efforts are ongoing, stating, “We still want to investigate and see if there are additional individuals who can provide enough evidence to identify all those involved.”
Henderson is expected to make his initial court appearance on June 16th. He also faces a separate case in King County Superior Court for allegedly fleeing from law enforcement and illegally possessing a firearm.
