Man believed to have stolen DHS chief Kristi Noem’s purse is in custody

Law enforcement authorities in South Florida arrested a second individual on Sunday in connection with the theft of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s purse, as reported by two sources familiar with the situation. A Secret Service spokesperson stated that the second suspect is allegedly involved in a series of thefts and robberies with the main defendant accused of the Secretary’s theft. The Miami Beach police department and immigration and customs enforcement played a crucial role in the arrest.

The U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia, Ed Martin, confirmed that the second suspect is also in the country illegally and has been charged with possession of stolen or fictitious identification. The first suspect involved in the case, Mario E. Bustamante Leiva, a 49-year-old Chilean national, was arrested on Saturday and is also in the country illegally.

According to Martin, there is no indication that Bustamante Leiva targeted Noem because of her position as the Department of Homeland Security chief. He emphasized that the suspect was attracted to the purse itself. Immigration and Customs Enforcement are now handling the case, with the intent to prosecute and deport the suspects promptly.

Matt McCool, a United States Secret Service official, described Bustamante Leiva as a “serial offender” with alleged criminal activity involving device and credit card fraud. The investigation revealed that the suspect had engaged in similar incidents before stealing Noem’s bag. Bustamante Leiva faces multiple charges related to robbery incidents predating the theft of Noem’s purse.

Noem, who receives Secret Service protection as DHS secretary, had her purse stolen in a restaurant in Washington, D.C. The thief took her purse containing cash, credit cards, and personal documents while she was dining with her family. Noem declined to comment on the situation, stating that it is unresolved.

The investigation into the case is ongoing, and the Secret Service is collaborating with law enforcement agencies to present their findings in court. Additional charges are expected to be filed against Bustamante Leiva for his involvement in multiple theft incidents.