A New Jersey pawn shop owner, Dimitriy Nezhinskiy, pleaded guilty to charges related to a multi-state burglary operation that affected high-profile athletes, including Cincinnati Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow. Nezhinskiy admitted to purchasing and reselling stolen luxury items, such as watches and jewelry, as part of a nationwide slice of burglaries that targeted affluent homes.

While he maintained that he believed the goods were not stolen when he bought them, his actions have been linked to a scheme of thieves who struck athletes’ residences while they were away for games. Nezhinskiy’s co-manager, Juan Villar, also involved in the operation, has sought similar legal recourse. The trial has unearthed a range of items seized by authorities, from jewelry to power tools utilized in burglaries.

Nezhinskiy faces a significant prison sentence and potential deportation, having initially immigrated from Georgia.

“I am very sorry for my actions,” Nezhinskiy stated. “Most of my business was completely legitimate, and it was a good business.”

Comments from Jessica Tisch, New York City’s police commissioner, highlighted the seriousness of the crime, labeling it a systematic operation that exploited innocent victims.