Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem became the victim of a bold theft Sunday night while dining with her family at Capital Burger, a bustling restaurant in downtown Washington, D.C. According to officials, Noem’s handbag was swiped from beneath her seat—even as her Secret Service detail was nearby.
The stolen bag reportedly contained more than just personal effects. Law enforcement
Surveillance footage reviewed by the Secret Service shows a white male suspect wearing a medical mask sitting near Noem’s table, sliding the purse toward himself with his foot, and leaving the restaurant with it concealed under his jacket. The theft was only discovered after the suspect had already exited.
The Secret Service has launched an investigation, combing through security footage and monitoring for any use of Noem’s stolen credentials or funds. Noem’s cellphone was not in the bag at the time, but the loss of sensitive identification and access materials has prompted additional security reviews.
As of now, the suspect remains at large, and the incident has raised questions about security protocols—even for those tasked with safeguarding the nation.
