Two Individuals Detained for Alleged Theft of Kristi Noem's Bag

Following a recent incident involving the theft of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's purse, authorities have apprehended a suspect.

Mario Bustamante Leiva, aged 49, was taken into custody on Saturday, facing charges that include wire fraud and identity theft, along with theft.

Noem was enjoying a meal at Capital Burger in Washington, D.C., when the theft occurred. She discovered her government ID and several credit cards missing and immediately informed her Secret Service team, who then alerted the local authorities.

Reportedly, Leiva was observed on security cameras sitting near Noem's table. The footage allegedly shows him moving his chair closer, concealing his actions with a jacket as he reached for her bag from the floor. Additional footage reportedly captures him disposing of her driver's license and later making purchases over $200 using her card.

Noem expressed gratitude on social media to Secret Service and law enforcement for recovering her belongings and apprehending the suspect of the crime that ruined her Easter lunch.

Identified Background on the Suspect

According to the Department of Justice, Leiva, a native of Chile, resides illegally in the United States. He is suspected of similar thefts within the area, utilizing a consistent method to swipe women's bags undetected. Allegedly, he accrued $900 in charges using stolen credit cards.

Immigration authorities have placed a detainer on Leiva, requiring the agency to hold him an additional 48 hours post-release to evaluate further actions.

Leiva's legal representative has not provided public comments regarding the allegations.

Interviews with police reveal that Leiva confessed to using his feet to shift Noem's purse. He claimed ignorance regarding her identity prior to the theft.

Additional Collaborator Arrested

Another suspect, believed to be involved in the thefts, was detained in Miami by Secret Service agents on Sunday. Although not publicly named, identification is anticipated following formal charges.

Miami Beach Police, acting on probable location data, quickly apprehended this suspect without any noted disturbances.

The accomplice was allegedly recorded using the stolen cards to add funds to public transit cards and renting accommodation under his name.

Leiva confirmed recognizing the second suspect on the day of the arrest and the second individual is being held under an immigration detainer as well.