Kristi Noem, who works as President Trump’s Secretary of Homeland Security, had her luxury handbag stolen in Washington, D.C. The theft occurred while she was dining with her family at The Capital Burger restaurant. This was not just a regular purse—it had $3,000 in cash, her passport, keys, blank checks, makeup bag, and even her Homeland Security access badge.
Surveillance cameras caught everything. A man in dark clothes and a surgical mask sat near her table. He slowly moved closer until he sat right behind her. Then, he carefully used his foot to slide the bag toward himself. After that, he looked around the restaurant, picked up the bag, covered it with his jacket, and calmly walked out. It all happened in just a few minutes.
What’s even more shocking is that two Secret Service agents were sitting nearby. They were between Noem’s table and the restaurant’s door, but they didn’t notice anything strange happening. This has raised numerous questions about the safety and protection of top government officials.
The thief was clever and sneaky. He knew how to act normal, move slowly, and avoid drawing attention. Police are unsure whether he knew who Noem was or if he saw an expensive bag and took a chance. Either way, the crime has highlighted a significant issue with security measures.
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This wasn’t the only purse theft in the area. Just three days before, another woman had her purse stolen at a hotel restaurant only two blocks away. In that case, a man wearing dark clothes, a dark cap, and a white mask took her bag right off the back of her chair. Police are now trying to determine if the same person is responsible for both crimes.
After the theft, police contacted the woman from the hotel case to ask if she worked in politics. She didn’t. This demonstrates the seriousness with which officials are investigating whether government workers are being targeted.
As of now, there have been no arrests. Noem confirmed the theft during the White House Easter Egg Roll on Monday. She said the case is still open, but she didn’t provide any further details.
Security experts are very concerned. They say it’s not just about a missing purse. This type of crime can have significant consequences. The bag contained essential items, including her Homeland Security badge. If it falls into the wrong hands, it could be dangerous.
Jonathan Wackrow, a former Secret Service agent, said the situation needs to be reviewed fast. He told CNN that changes are necessary for how agents protect officials during private outings. “This is a security breach that has high consequences,” he said.
Noem has often portrayed herself as tough on crime. She recently joined an ICE raid in New York City and has spoken strongly about law and order. However, people are now wondering how someone in charge of security lost her bag so easily.
Investigators are now checking to see if the thief has tried to use Noem’s cards or checks. They are also trying to track down the man from the video. Meanwhile, many are waiting to see what changes will be made to prevent such an incident from happening again.
Featured image via Screengrab
