One of the illegal aliens accused of stealing Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's purse has an extensive criminal record spanning multiple countries and continents.
According to Breitbart, Mario Bustamante-Leiva, 49, from Chile, was arrested in Washington, D.C., for allegedly stealing Noem's purse containing sensitive DHS materials just weeks after being released for a similar crime in New York City.
The suspect's criminal activities extend beyond the recent theft, with records showing previous arrests in Utah for shoplifting in 2021 and a significant arrest in London in 2015. During his London crime spree, Bustamante-Leiva allegedly stole phones, wallets, and computers valued at $28,000 over several months.
Bustamante-Leiva's arrest has revealed potential links to a broader criminal network. Law enforcement officials believe he may be part of a South American theft ring targeting wealthy Americans and legal immigrants.
A second Chilean national, Cristian Rodrigo Montecino-Sanzana, 51, was apprehended in Miami for his alleged involvement in the theft of Noem's purse. The pair's coordinated activities suggest a sophisticated operation extending beyond isolated incidents.
The theft of Noem's belongings has raised serious security concerns, as her purse contained sensitive items including a DHS access card, passport, and $3,000 in cash.
Tom Homan, who served as the Border Czar during the Trump administration, responded to the incident by saying the suspects targeted the wrong person when they attempted the theft.
The case has highlighted issues with New York City's sanctuary laws, which prevented law enforcement from reporting Bustamante-Leiva to federal immigration authorities despite his illegal status. In March, he was arrested for stealing a fanny pack and making unauthorized credit card charges totaling $1,200 in Times Square.
After his arrest in New York, authorities issued him a desk appearance ticket for fourth-degree felony grand larceny charges. He was released but failed to appear for his court date, prompting a citywide search.
Items stolen from Secretary Noem included critical security materials along with personal belongings. The theft occurred while she was having an Easter meal with her family at Capital Burger in Washington, D.C.
The investigation has uncovered a pattern of similar thefts targeting high-profile individuals. Law enforcement agencies are working to determine the full extent of the theft ring's operations and potential national security implications.
The case has drawn attention to vulnerabilities in protecting government officials and their sensitive materials in public spaces.
Bustamante-Leiva and Montecino-Sanzana, both Chilean nationals in the U.S. illegally, were arrested following an investigation into the theft of DHS Secretary Kristi Noem's purse at a Washington, D.C. restaurant. The incident has exposed potential connections to a larger South American theft ring targeting wealthy Americans and legal immigrants. As the investigation continues, authorities are examining the suspects' extensive criminal histories across multiple countries and the implications of sanctuary city policies that may have enabled their continued criminal activities.
