The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) responded to Newsweek Monday morning after Secretary Kristi Noem was the reported victim of a theft while dining this weekend at a restaurant in downtown Washington, D.C.
Why It Matters
Noem previously served as governor of South Dakota from 2019 to 2025 before accepting the position of DHS secretary following President Donald Trump‘s election last November.
She has been one of the Trump administration’s leading officials when it comes to curbing illegal immigration. This role has extended to targeting institutions like Harvard over grant funding because of alleged toleration of antisemitism following myriad pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses against Israel’s assault on Gaza.
What To Know
According to CNN, a suspect made off with several personal and sensitive items, including Noem’s driver’s license, prescription medication, apartment keys, passport, DHS access badge, makeup bag, blank checks and approximately $3,000 in cash.
DHS told Newsweek via email that Noem had the $3,000 in cash to “treat her family to dinner, activities, and Easter gifts.”
“We can confirm this occurred last night. Her entire family was in town including her children and grandchildren,” the statement from DHS read.
A Washington D.C. Police spokesperson deferred comment to DHS and the U.S. Secret Service (USSS). USSS had not responded for comment at press time.
AFP/Getty Images
The Secret Service reportedly reviewed security camera footage at the unnamed restaurant and observed an unknown white male, wearing a medical mask, steal her bag and leave the restaurant, according to an unidentified law enforcement source who spoke to CNN.
As of Monday morning, neither Noem, DHS nor any other federal agencies had publicly remarked about the incident.
Noem’s most recent X post on Sunday included a family photo and wishes for a blessed Easter.
In March, the Associated Press reported Noem’s travel receipts while governor were discovered to include over $150,000 in expenses unrelated to state business, such as covering personal and political trips like visits to Trump in Palm Beach, Florida, prior to the 2024 election. The receipts were discovered following a lawsuit filed in September 2024 by media outlet The Dakota Scout against state auditor Rich Sattgast, requesting transparency surrounding Noem’s state-issued credit cards.
What People Are Saying
Tim Miller, of The Bulwark Podcast, on X: “Why does the DHS Secretary have 3 grand in cash on her person?”
Podcast host Brian Allen on X: “Yes, the woman in charge of protecting the nation… couldn’t protect her purse.”
“Angry Staffer” on X: “Noem’s bag, including $3,000 in cash was stolen from a DC restaurant. What was her detail doing?”
“Anarchy princess” on X: “Personal or government checks???? What an epic failure. DHS badge?? My god.”
What Happens Next
USSS is reportedly investigating the incident. No additional details regarding the suspect or his identity have been provided.
Update 4/21/25, 12:45 p.m. ET: This story was updated with more information.
