SEATTLE – A man accused of participating in a string of home invasions targeting Seattle-area celebrities, including rapper Macklemore and former Seattle Mariners star Ichiro Suzuki, pleaded not guilty Friday to charges including residential burglary and assault.
Chad Maisonet, 31, entered the plea in King County Superior Court, according to court documents. The case centers around a series of break-ins occurring in June and July, where victims were sometimes confronted and assaulted during the robberies. Authorities allege Maisonet and at least one other individual targeted homes believed to contain valuable collectibles and jewelry.
the incidents gained public attention due to the high-profile status of the victims. On June 7, Macklemore’s home was burglarized, and a 22-year-old nanny was sprayed with pepper spray during the incident, managing to escape to a neighbor’s house for help. A day prior, Riley, another individual, was charged in connection with an incident at Suzuki’s home where she allegedly attempted to force her way into a bedroom, then pepper-sprayed the resident when she resisted, according to court documents. The resident was able to secure the door.
Police say Maisonet’s movements were tracked via phone location data, placing him near the homes of multiple robbery victims and a Seattle jewelry store where some stolen items were recovered. Macklemore, a Seattle native and investor in local sports teams, had showcased two championship rings in his 2022 music video for the song “Chant,” items investigators believe were potential targets.
Maisonet remains in custody as the investigation continues. Prosecutors are pursuing charges that could carry significant prison sentences if he is convicted. The case highlights growing concerns about security for high-profile residents in the Seattle area and the potential for organized crime targeting valuable possessions.