Two Suspects Arrested in Connection with Kristi Noem's Purse Theft
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's stolen purse theft linked to career criminals, both suspects arrested are in the U.S. illegally.
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Overview
Mario Bustamante Leiva, 49, was charged with aggravated identity theft and robbery after allegedly stealing DHS Secretary Kristi Noem's purse during a family meal in Washington, D.C. Noem expressed confidence that the suspects are illegal immigrants and career criminals. Video captured Leiva stealing her bag on April 20, 2024, while her family dined at Capital Burger. He used Noem's stolen credit cards for over $200 in purchases. The second suspect, Cristian Rodrigo Montecino-Sanzana, was arrested in Miami. Investigators recovered Noem's belongings, including $3,000 in cash, from Leiva's motel room.
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Mario Bustamante Leiva faces charges including robbery and aggravated identity theft. Investigators also found evidence of potential device and credit card fraud.
Montecino-Sanzana was arrested after being spotted entering a Miami Beach Walgreens. U.S. Secret Service coordinated the arrest, and police found him carrying a fake California ID.
Investigators recovered Noem's belongings, including $3,000 in cash, from Leiva's motel room. Her purse contained government credentials, passport, and credit cards.
Authorities stated there was no indication Noem was targeted due to her position, attributing the theft to the purse's appearance as a 'nice-looking' target.
Both suspects—Leiva and Montecino-Sanzana—are Chilean nationals in the U.S. illegally. They face immigration detainers and potential deportation after any jail terms.
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