Two Arrested in Theft of Homeland Security Secretary’s Purse

Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the theft of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's purse, which was stolen while she dined with her family at a Washington, D.C. restaurant on Easter Sunday. The suspects, identified as Mario E. Bustamante Leiva and Cristian Rodrigo Montecino Sanzana, are both reportedly in the U.S. illegally and face various federal and state charges, including theft and possession of false identification. The stolen bag contained significant personal and official items, including cash, Noem’s passport, her DHS badge, and credit cards. Authorities say the theft does not appear to be politically motivated, but rather a crime of opportunity targeting a high-value purse. Both suspects were apprehended without incident, one in Washington, D.C. and the other in Miami Beach, and are being held on immigration detainers as investigations continue. Secretary Noem and officials have highlighted the role of federal agencies in their swift response to the case.