Pawn shop owner admits role in burglary ring targeting Joe Burrows, athletes
A New York pawn shop owner pleaded guilty Friday to trafficking luxury goods stolen during a nationwide burglary spree that included a December 2022 robbery of Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow’s Ohio home, federal prosecutors announced.
Guilty plea in stolen goods conspiracy
Dimitriy Nezhinskiy, 43, admitted in Brooklyn federal court to conspiring to sell an estimated $2.5 million in stolen watches, jewelry, and handbags acquired from South American theft crews. The New Jersey resident and co-owner of a Queens pawn shop faces up to five years in prison and restitution payments. His business partner, Juan Villar, pleaded guilty to the same charge in June 2023.
NFL, NBA stars targeted in burglary wave
Burrow’s $300,000 loss occurred while he played a Dallas road game in December 2022. The FBI linked the crime to organized groups targeting high-profile athletes, including Kansas City Chiefs stars Patrick Mahomes and Travis Kelce, and NBA players Luka Dončić and Mike Conley. Three suspects were indicted in February 2023 for Burrow’s burglary and related crimes.
Pawn shop tied to burglary tools, memorabilia
Authorities found sports memorabilia, artwork, and safecracking tools during raids on Nezhinskiy’s pawn shop and New Jersey storage units. “He established a demand for stolen merchandise, which allowed these groups to profit from repeated burglaries,” said FBI assistant director Christopher Raia. The operation allegedly laundered goods from over 20 states.
Burrow’s post-burglary caution revealed
During Netflix’s Quarterback series, Burrow disclosed canceling a planned Batmobile purchase after the invasion: “My life is very public… Your house is one of those [private] parts.” No sentencing date is set for Nezhinskiy, who could face deportation to Georgia post-conviction.
Key details:
- Total restitution: $2.5 million
- Theft crews: FBI-classified “South American Theft Groups”
- Recovered items: Luxury goods, safecracking tools
- Legal status: 3 burglary suspects indicted in Ohio (February 2023)
