2 suspects arrested for stealing Kristi Noem's bag were in the country illegally, authorities say - CBS News

2 suspects arrested for stealing Kristi Noem's bag were in the country illegally, authorities say - CBS News

April 28, 2025 — Two suspects arrested in connection with the theft of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's purse were found to be in the country illegally, authorities have stated. The incident, which occurred last Sunday in a Washington D.C. restaurant, has sparked an investigation into the security protocols in place to protect high-ranking officials.

Details of the Theft

On Sunday, April 14, 2025, a man stole Noem's purse from a restaurant in downtown Washington D.C. The bag contained her driver's license, prescription medication, apartment keys, passport, DHS access badge, makeup bag, blank checks, and approximately $3,000 in cash. The incident raised questions about the effectiveness of her security detail, prompting the U.S. Secret Service (USSS) to launch an investigation.

Arrests and Illegal Immigration Status

According to an anonymous law enforcement source, one man is now in custody and multiple other arrests are expected in a theft ring connected to the incident. The source did not specify any details about the man, and the USSS did not confirm or comment on the reported arrest. However, U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia Ed Martin stated that the arrested suspect is in the country illegally [1].

Second Arrest in South Florida

Law enforcement authorities also arrested a second individual in South Florida connected to the theft of Noem's purse. The suspect, Mario E. Bustamante Leiva, a 49-year-old Chilean national, was taken into custody with the assistance of the Miami Beach Police Department and Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). Bustamante Leiva is also in the country illegally [2].

Investigation and Charges

The investigation revealed alleged criminal activity, including potential device and credit card fraud, by Bustamante Leiva. He was charged with two counts of robbery, related to two alleged incidents predating Noem's bag theft. The Metropolitan Police Department and USSS announced in a joint statement that Bustamante Leiva faces additional charges for an offense being investigated by the USSS.

Noem's Response

When asked for comment on the situation, Noem stated that the incident was professionally executed and that it reaffirms her commitment to making communities safer. She emphasized that her job as DHS secretary is to ensure that families do not have to live with any kind of violence in their lives.

Next Steps

If criminal charges are filed, DHS will release further public information surrounding those charged in the theft. The suspect is scheduled to appear in court early this week.

References

[1] https://www.newsweek.com/kristi-noem-gucci-bag-stolen-man-arrested-2064714

[2] https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/national-security/man-believed-stolen-dhs-chief-kristi-noems-purse-custody-rcna203176