Arrests Made in Theft of Secretary Kristi Noem’s Designer Handbag

U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's designer handbag was stolen while dining in Washington, D.C., leading to the arrest of two men on robbery and theft charges.

In a dramatic turn of events, law enforcement officials have arrested two men following the theft of a designer handbag owned by U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem. The incident occurred on Easter Sunday as Noem was enjoying a meal with her family at Capital Burger, a popular restaurant in Washington, D.C.

On Saturday, authorities took 49-year-old Mario Bustamante Leiva into custody, and a day later, the U.S. Secret Service apprehended his alleged accomplice, 51-year-old Cristian Rodrigo Montecino-Sanzana, in Miami. Bustamante Leiva faces multiple charges, including robbery, aggravated identity theft, and wire fraud, and is believed to have committed two other robberies, reportedly using the stolen funds for gifts and lodging.

Surveillance footage captured Bustamante Leiva snatching Noem's Gucci handbag, which contained $3,000 in cash, several credit cards, her Homeland Security badge, medication, and a driving license. After the theft, he was seen using one of Noem's cards to purchase food at an Italian restaurant.

Montecino-Sanzana's arrest unfolded in a Miami drugstore, where officials indicated he was involved in a series of thefts in Washington, D.C. Legal representation for both men has not been immediately established. Noem took to social media following the incident, emphasizing Bustamante Leiva's criminal history and stating he had been residing illegally in the U.S. for years.

Despite having Secret Service protection while at the restaurant, the theft went unnoticed until afterward. Noem had retrieved the cash to treat family members to a festive meal and holiday experiences.