Suspect Arrested in Theft of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem’s Purse
The U.S. Secret Service has filed federal charges against Mario Bustamante Leiva, a 49-year-old man accused of stealing the purse of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem while she was dining with family on Easter Sunday.
Details of the Incident
The theft reportedly occurred at The Capital Burger in Washington, D.C., where Noem was enjoying a meal with her family. The luxury handbag, which contained approximately $3,000 in cash along with personal items such as her driver’s license, passport, medication, and a DHS badge, was taken from the floor near her table.
Charges Filed Against Bustamante Leiva
The criminal complaint, submitted on Monday, accuses Bustamante Leiva of multiple offenses, including:
- Wire fraud
- Aggravated identity theft
- Robbery
According to the complaint, Bustamante Leiva is linked to three separate robberies occurring between April 12, 2024, and April 20, 2025. After each incident, he allegedly made fraudulent purchases using stolen credit cards from his victims.
Investigation and Arrest
Local authorities, including the Metropolitan Police Department and the Secret Service, managed to gather video evidence from the restaurant that identified Bustamante Leiva as the suspect in these thefts. He was apprehended on Saturday and initially faced two counts of robbery, with additional charges anticipated as investigations continue.
Additional Insights
Authorities confirmed that Bustamante Leiva is in the U.S. illegally and is a Chilean national. The method employed during the thefts was reportedly similar in each case—approaching victims at their tables to snatch purses placed behind their seats.
Security footage revealed a male suspect wearing a dark outfit and an N95 mask, who swiftly left the scene after the theft.
Context and Reactions
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem has remarked on the professionalism with which the theft was executed, noting its brazen nature during a family outing. The incident has raised discussions about safety and security in public spaces.
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The U.S. Secret Service has initiated criminal proceedings against Mario Bustamante Leiva. (Fox News)
