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Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem expressed strong assurance that the two individuals arrested for the theft of her purse are unlawfully present in the United States.
During an interview with CBS News at the U.S.-Mexico border, she remarked, “These are career criminals. They have perpetuated crimes against many people in this country for many years illegally.”
The incident occurred on April 20 when Noem was dining at a restaurant in Washington, D.C., accompanied by her family. She indicated that the purse, resting between her feet, was swiftly removed.
Noem clarified that she does not believe she was specifically targeted, describing the theft as a coincidence. “But the way it was taken was very professional,” she noted. “This is what Americans ought not to endure. It’s not just about me or my family; it’s about the communities that have faced these issues for years. The more we can apprehend these individuals, hold them accountable, and remove them from our nation, the safer America will become.”
Mario Bustamante Leiva, 49, was apprehended in Washington, D.C., on Saturday and is facing charges of wire fraud, identity theft, and robbery related to three separate purse thefts this month, according to the Department of Justice. Reports indicate that Leiva, originally from Chile, is in the U.S. illegally.
The Secret Service has also confirmed the arrest of another suspect, Cristian Rodrigo Montecino-Sanzana, 51, who was taken into custody at a Walgreens in South Beach. Immigration and Customs Enforcement has issued immigration detainers for both individuals.
As of now, no legal representation has been recorded for either suspect in the D.C. federal court system.
Noem’s stolen purse contained several sensitive items, including her driver’s license, passport, Department of Homeland Security access badge, checks, and approximately $3,000 in cash. While her cellphone was not in the bag, other valuables such as credit cards, makeup, and personal medication were among the items reported stolen.
The Justice Department has indicated that the suspects charged over $200 to Noem’s credit card.
For further insights, tune in to Tony Dokoupil’s interview with Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, airing Wednesday on “CBS Mornings.”
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