Atlanta Police have arrested four people in connection with at least 15 home invasions in Sandy Springs and metro Atlanta, including the home of “Real Housewives of Atlanta” star Marlo Hampton.
According to local station WSB-TV, the four suspects are alleged gang members who have targeted celebrity homes for the past year. Hampton told the outlet she watched the armed men in masks attempt to break into her home through her security system. She heard a loud noise after they kicked down the door in her home in the Atlanta suburb of Sandy Springs.
“When I heard the boom, when I heard my nephew scream…and I knew that scream was a scream of fear, my heart dropped,” said the reality star, who said she reacted by going to her panic room and calling 911.
The attempted break-in at Hampton’s home took place on Friday, July 1. She lives in the home with her two teenage nephews, Michael and William. Local police confirmed it was connected to other incidents. She thanks God she and her family were not harmed and warns others about attracting thieves by posting luxury items on social media.
“I just thank God and we’re covered in the blood of Jesus and I’m here to share this story with you,” she added. “But my main concern is, I want all the ladies…I want everyone to be aware if you are posting, if you do have luxury items, be careful.”
The four suspects were arrested this past Sunday morning, July 16, after attempting to break into a townhouse where one mother of one of rapper Future’s children lived. Believing she was the next target, Sandy Springs police set up a stakeout to catch the assailants in the act.
The four men were taken into custody after “both a foot chase and a vehicle chase ensued,” according to Sandy Springs Police Sgt. Matt McGinnis. Investigators began looking into the alleged gang over a year ago after another home invasion in Atlanta on Oct. 1, 2021. Seven suspects were arrested at that time.
“We expect it to get bigger,” said McGinnis, noting that the homes of notable entertainers, sports athletes, and social media stars were targeted. Among those victims are rapper Gunna and players from the Atlanta Falcons, the Atlanta United soccer team, and a prominent lacrosse player.
The Sandy Springs Police Department is still looking for the alleged ringleader of the crew.
