A relaxing Easter dinner turned into a security concern for Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and her family in Washington, D.C.
According to The Daily Caller, Secretary Noem had her purse stolen while dining at Capitol Burger in downtown Washington, D.C., on Sunday night, containing approximately $3,000 in cash, her driver's license, and DHS access badge among other items.
The incident occurred while Noem was enjoying a holiday meal with her family, including her children and grandchildren.
Her purse was placed beneath her chair when an unidentified white male wearing a medical mask managed to steal it and exit the restaurant, as captured by surveillance footage reviewed by the Secret Service.
The Secret Service, responsible for Noem's security detail, has initiated an investigation into the theft. They are particularly concerned about the stolen DHS access badge and are actively monitoring whether any of Noem's financial items have been compromised or used since the incident.
The Department of Homeland Security released a statement explaining that the Secretary had brought the substantial amount of cash to cover family activities during the Easter holiday. The funds were intended for dinner, various activities, and Easter gifts for her visiting family members.
The theft was discovered during what should have been a festive family gathering at Capitol Burger, a popular dining establishment in the nation's capital. The restaurant's busy atmosphere may have provided cover for the perpetrator to carry out the theft unnoticed.
The loss of Noem's DHS access badge presents potential security implications for the department. Such credentials typically provide access to secure government facilities and sensitive areas, making their recovery a priority for law enforcement.
The Secret Service is working closely with local law enforcement to identify and apprehend the suspect captured on the restaurant's surveillance system. The footage showing a masked individual could prove crucial in the ongoing investigation.
The incident was publicly acknowledged by Noem herself during Monday's White House Easter Egg Roll, where she confirmed the theft remained unresolved.
The theft has raised questions about security protocols for high-ranking government officials during personal outings. While the Secret Service maintains protective details for cabinet members, personal items can still be vulnerable to opportunistic theft.
Local law enforcement and federal authorities are coordinating their efforts to locate both the stolen items and identify the perpetrator. The case has gained particular urgency due to the sensitive nature of the stolen credentials.
Capitol Burger's management is cooperating fully with investigators, providing all available surveillance footage and witness statements from staff members who were present during the incident.
The Easter Sunday theft of Secretary Noem's personal belongings has evolved into a multi-agency investigation focusing on recovering sensitive government credentials and identifying the perpetrator.
The incident occurred while the DHS Secretary was spending time with her extended family, including children and grandchildren, during what was meant to be a festive holiday celebration at Capitol Burger in downtown Washington, D.C.
Law enforcement agencies are actively pursuing leads based on surveillance footage showing a white male suspect wearing a medical mask. The recovery of Noem's DHS access badge remains a top priority due to its potential security implications, while investigators also monitor for any unauthorized use of her stolen financial items.
