Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s purse containing $3,000 in cash, sensitive credentials, and personal items was stolen from a Washington D.C. restaurant while Secret Service agents were nearby.

At a Glance

• Noem’s purse was stolen at Capital Burger in downtown Washington, containing $3,000 cash, her passport, driver’s license, and apartment keys
• The purse also contained her DHS identification card, credit cards, medication, and a Homeland Security badge
• Security footage showed a masked white male suspect taking the purse
• Secret Service agents were present in the restaurant during the theft
• The cash was intended for family activities and Easter gifts for her children and grandchildren

High-Profile Theft Details

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem fell victim to theft at a Washington, D.C. restaurant over Easter weekend. The incident occurred at Capital Burger in downtown Washington while Noem was dining. According to reports, her purse was stolen containing $3,000 in cash, her passport, driver’s license, apartment keys, DHS personal identity verification card, credit cards, blank checks, makeup, medication, and a Homeland Security badge. The theft quickly drew attention due to both the value of items taken and Noem’s prominent position overseeing the nation’s security apparatus.

Security footage from the restaurant revealed the thief was a white male wearing a medical mask. Despite the presence of “at least two on-duty plainclothes members of the US Secret Service” at the restaurant, the theft was not prevented. The restaurant’s surveillance system is controlled by Darden Restaurants, which has not issued any public statements regarding the incident. The theft appears to have occurred without attracting immediate attention from security personnel or other diners.

Sec Kristi Noem's purse had her IDs, makeup bag, $3,000 in cash when stolen —

per DHS, "Her entire family was in town including her children and grandchildren — she was using the cash withdrawal to treat her family to dinner, activities, and Easter gifts." https://t.co/k5eGaBl6rq

— Homa Bash (@HomaBashNews) April 21, 2025

Investigation Status and Family Impact

The theft remains unresolved as of the White House Easter Egg Roll, where Noem was asked about the incident. When approached by reporters, Noem declined to provide details, stating, “I don’t think I can comment on it yet. It’s not resolved yet.” The U.S. Secret Service is aware of the theft, though reports indicate Noem had not yet spoken directly with them about the incident. Law enforcement efforts to identify the perpetrator and recover the stolen items continue.

“Her entire family was in town including her children and grandchildren. She was using the cash withdrawal to treat her family to dinner, activities, and Easter gifts.” – DHS spokesperson Tricia McLaughlin

DHS officials confirmed that the cash was withdrawn specifically for family activities during the Easter holiday weekend. Noem’s family, including her children and grandchildren, were visiting Washington D.C. at the time. The theft disrupted plans for family celebrations and necessitated immediate security measures due to the sensitive nature of the stolen credentials. The incident highlights both personal and security implications when high-ranking officials become victims of crime.

I can confirm through multiple DHS sources that Noem had her purse stolen last night in DC.

Spox tells me that large amount of cash was meant for gifts, activities and dinner for family who was all in town for Easter.

Awaiting further details. https://t.co/uqMXxqAyZl

— Cameron Arcand (@cameron_arcand) April 21, 2025

Security Concerns for Government Officials

The theft raises significant questions about security protocols for cabinet members and other high-ranking government officials in public settings. Despite having Secret Service protection present, Noem’s personal belongings containing sensitive government credentials were successfully stolen. The incident exposes potential vulnerabilities in security arrangements for officials who need to maintain both personal freedoms and appropriate security measures while conducting everyday activities like dining out.

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's purse was stolen Sunday night at a Washington, D.C. restaurant. https://t.co/G77GhIhSCM

— CBS News (@CBSNews) April 21, 2025

Prior to her appointment as Secretary of Homeland Security, Noem served as the governor of South Dakota and represented the state in the U.S. House of Representatives. Her current role places her at the helm of one of the nation’s most critical security agencies, responsible for border security, immigration enforcement, cybersecurity, and disaster response. The theft of her official credentials presents not only a personal inconvenience but potential security implications that extend beyond the financial loss.

Sources:

Kristi Noem says purse – and $3,000 in cash – stolen from DC restaurant

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s bag was stolen, with $3,000 in cash, at a D.C. restaurant

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