Two Suspects Arrested in Connection with Theft of Kristi Noem’s Bag in Washington, DC

Authorities announced Sunday that two suspects have been arrested in connection with the theft of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s bag from a Washington, DC, restaurant on Easter Sunday.

According to the US Secret Service, one suspect was apprehended in Washington and another in Miami. The individual arrested in Washington is described as a serial offender with a history of thefts and has been linked to multiple incidents at restaurants earlier this month through video evidence. Officials emphasized there was no indication that Noem was targeted because of her government position.

The suspect detained in Miami is believed to be a co-conspirator and is being held on an immigration detainer. Law enforcement officials said this second individual is considered the primary suspect in the theft of Noem’s belongings. Their name will be released once formal charges are finalized.

Secretary Noem’s bag, taken while she was dining with her family, reportedly contained about $3,000 in cash, her DHS access card, passport, driver’s license, apartment key, and other personal items. In an interview, Noem described the theft as appearing “professionally done,” noting that her purse had been hooked with a foot, dragged a few steps, and then covered with a coat before being removed.

In a post on social media, Noem thanked the Secret Service, ICE, and other law enforcement partners for their work on the case. She characterized the individual responsible as a “career criminal” who had been in the US illegally for years, although the Secret Service has referred questions about immigration status to federal prosecutors.

Officials have indicated that the investigation also uncovered evidence of attempted device and credit card fraud connected to the case. The Secret Service noted that it would maintain jurisdiction over the investigation, given the broader criminal implications.

The theft, which occurred at The Capital Burger in downtown Washington, prompted broader scrutiny of security procedures, though Noem had Secret Service protection at the time. Agents reportedly stayed a distance away to allow her privacy during her meal with family members, including her grandchildren.

Federal authorities are continuing to investigate the incident and have indicated that additional individuals connected to the theft may be sought.

With input from ABC News, the New York Times, and the Washington Post.