Police Search for Suspects in Rick Pitino's Office Burglary
- St. John's basketball coach Rick Pitino fell victim to a burglary in which thieves stole memorabilia from his office.
- Police are actively seeking two suspects involved in the burglary of Rick Pitino's office.
- The investigation is ongoing, and the public's help is needed to track down the perpetrators.
Hall of Fame basketball coach Rick Pitino was the victim of a burglary at St. John’s University this week, prompting an investigation by local authorities. The incident occurred on Tuesday evening, just before 8 p.m., when two suspects allegedly broke into Pitino’s office located within the Athletics Department at the university's Queens campus. A spokesperson confirmed that the university is cooperating with the NYPD, which has been provided with surveillance footage to aid in identifying the suspects. Among the stolen items were a ceremonial sword and a bullhorn, with the total value of the theft estimated at around $375. In a lighthearted response to the incident, Pitino took to social media to joke about an expensive bottle of wine that was also taken, later clarifying that it is being kept safe for a future celebration when the St. John’s team reaches the Final Four. Pitino, who is in his second season as head coach of the St. John’s men’s basketball program, has a storied career, including NCAA championships with Kentucky in 1996 and Louisville in 2013, although the latter title was vacated due to NCAA violations. He also has experience in the NBA, having coached the New York Knicks and the Boston Celtics. The NYPD is actively seeking public assistance in the ongoing investigation into the burglary.