Four teenagers have been arrested in connection with a recent string of burglaries that targeted the homes of several high-profile celebrities, including actor Brad Pitt. According to Los Angeles Police Chief Jim McDonnell, the suspects—two 18-year-olds, a 17-year-old, and a 16-year-old—are affiliated with a street gang. Stolen items were recovered during police searches of their homes, indicating a broader scheme of “celebrity burglaries” across the area.
While the specific victims have not been publicly identified, notable figures such as Nicole Kidman, Keith Urban, and LA Dodgers pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto have reported break-ins this year, raising concern regarding the safety of public figures. This investigation began in late June following a burglary at Pitt's home, where masked individuals entered by breaching a fenced perimeter and smashing a window.
It is important to note that Pitt was away at the time, promoting his new film, "F1". Authorities have not confirmed that the ransacked property belonged to the Oscar-winning actor, but the location coincides with a property he purchased earlier in 2023. The residence is known for its seclusion, situated near Griffith Park and surrounded by greenery, which generally obscures it from public view.
Police reported that the arrested teenagers were part of a crew that specialized in burglarizing affluent homes belonging to actors and athletes. Investigators tracked the suspects for a week prior to their arrest on burglary charges. McDonnell elaborated on how these young burglars had adapted sophisticated techniques to evade detection, including installing surveillance cameras in the vicinity of their targeted homes and employing wi-fi jammers to disable security systems.
The police chief pointed out that celebrities, due to their public nature and frequent social media activity, can unwittingly reveal their absence from home, making them easier targets for thieves. McDonnell advised caution to anyone who shares their travel plans online. “We don't really give enough thought to... [while] we want our friends to know where we are and what we're doing, you're telling everybody else then who may be looking to exploit your situation,” he said.
