Homeland Security Secretary Noem's purse stolen at DC restaurant, officials say

Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's purse was stolen at a Washington, D.C. restaurant Sunday night, according to department officials.

The Associated Press
April 21, 2025 at 8:40PM
FILE — Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem watches as the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs committee holds a hearing to examine the nominations of Troy Edgar and Dan Bishop in Washington, Feb. 25, 2025. A handbag belonging to Noem containing her passport, department security badge and $3,000 in cash was stolen on Sunday night, April 20, 2025, at a restaurant in Washington, the department confirmed. (Kenny Holston/The New York Times) (KENNY HOLSTON/The New York Times)

WASHINGTON — Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's purse was stolen at a Washington, D.C. restaurant Sunday night, according to department officials.

The department in an email said Noem had money in her purse to buy gifts for her children and grandchildren and to pay for Easter dinner and other activities.

The department in an email didn't specify what was stolen, but CNN — which was first to report the story — said the thief took about $3,000 in cash, as well as Noem's keys, driver's license, passport, checks, makeup bag, medication and Homeland Security badge. The department said Noem had cash in her purse to pay for gifts, dinner and other activities for her family on Easter.

The Homeland Security Secretary is protected by U.S. Secret Service agents. The Secret Service referred questions about the incident to Homeland Security headquarters.

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