Court docs Wi-Fi jammers used in Seattle athletes' home invasions

Earl Riley IV, 21, and his accomplices allegedly used Wi-Fi jammers to disable web-based security cameras during a series of burglaries targeting the homes of prominent Seattle athletes, including Richard Sherman and Blake Snell. Security experts confirm that these jammers, which are inexpensive and readily available online, are increasingly used by criminals to block wireless camera signals, making hard-wired systems a more secure alternative. Riley faces multiple charges of residential burglary and robbery, with bail set at $1 million. In April, security footage captured the suspects fleeing from Sherman’s home after allegedly holding a family member at gunpoint and demanding to know Sherman's whereabouts. Investigators have linked Riley to at least three burglaries, with court documents revealing that surveillance video showed suspects carrying jammers during the break-ins.

Experts like Max Anderson emphasize the growing trend of criminals using this technology, urging homeowners to adopt hard-wired systems for enhanced security. The use of jammers has been documented in larger crime rings overseas and is now appearing more frequently in local incidents. The burglaries raise concerns about the effectiveness of current wireless security measures in protecting high-profile homes.