A second suspect has been arrested in connection with the brazen theft of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s purse, as authorities close in on what appears to be a criminal ring of foreign nationals targeting restaurant patrons.
At a Glance
- A second suspect has been arrested in Miami in connection with the theft of Secretary Noem’s purse, which occurred on Easter Sunday
- The primary suspect is Mario Bustamante Leiva, a 49-year-old Chilean national illegally in the U.S. with an extensive criminal history
- The stolen handbag contained Noem’s driver’s license, medication, apartment keys, $3,000 cash, department badge, and passport
- Authorities believe the theft was opportunistic due to the luxury bag, not specifically targeting Noem
- Five law enforcement agencies are involved in the investigation, including Secret Service and Immigration and Customs Enforcement
Second Arrest Made in High-Profile Theft
Federal authorities have arrested a second suspect in Miami believed to be connected to the theft of Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s purse. The accomplice, whose identity has not been publicly disclosed, is currently being held on an immigration detainer while charges are finalized. The suspect is believed to be part of a criminal network responsible for a series of similar thefts throughout Washington D.C., working alongside the primary suspect who was arrested earlier this week.
The first arrest in the case involved Mario Bustamante Leiva, a 49-year-old Chilean national who is illegally present in the United States. Law enforcement has described Leiva as having an extensive criminal history and employing a specific method of stealing purses from restaurant patrons before quickly fleeing the scene. The theft occurred on April 20, Easter Sunday, at The Capital Burger in downtown Washington while Secretary Noem was dining with her family.
NEW: 49y/o Mario Bustamante Leiva has been arrested as the suspect in @Sec_Noem purse theft—The DHS Secretary says Leiva is in the U.S. illegally.
He was charged with two counts of Robbery and faces additional charges for an offense being investigated by the United States… https://t.co/v3KkmXf7Op pic.twitter.com/hZMu1vYS7F
— Ali Bradley (@AliBradleyTV) April 27, 2025
Details of the Sophisticated Theft
Security footage from the restaurant revealed a methodical approach to the crime. The thief reportedly used his foot to hook Noem’s bag, dragged it across the floor, and covered it with a coat before leaving the establishment. The stolen handbag contained numerous valuable and sensitive items including Noem’s driver’s license, medication, apartment keys, blank checks, department badge, passport, and approximately $3,000 in cash. Following the theft, the suspects allegedly attempted to use Noem’s credit cards and access her electronic devices.
Secret Service agents were present during the meal but were positioned over 20 feet away to allow Noem privacy with her family. This positioning has raised questions about security protocols for high-ranking government officials, especially in light of other security incidents over the past year. The theft has added to scrutiny of the Secret Service, which has faced criticism following multiple security breaches, including assassination attempts on former President Donald Trump.
Collaborative Law Enforcement Response
The investigation has brought together five federal and local law enforcement agencies, including the Secret Service and Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Authorities have determined that the theft was not targeted at Noem specifically but was motivated by the opportunity to steal a luxury bag. The interim U.S. attorney confirmed the primary suspect’s illegal entry into the United States and mentioned ongoing efforts to find additional individuals connected to the theft ring.
Matt McCool, lead investigator on the case, described the primary suspect as “a serial offender” with a pattern of similar crimes. Noem’s spokesperson released a statement following the arrests, thanking law enforcement agencies for their swift action in apprehending the suspects. The case highlights concerns about both public safety and immigration enforcement that have been central to Noem’s role as Homeland Security Secretary, with the investigation potentially revealing broader criminal networks operating throughout major American cities.
