A theft ring operating in Washington, DC’s Penn Quarter has led to the arrest of one individual, with more arrests anticipated. The US Secret Service initiated an investigation following the theft of a bag belonging to Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem while she dined with family on Easter Sunday.
While authorities have kept the identity of the alleged thief under wraps, details from the incident reveal that surveillance footage showed him strategically positioning himself near Noem at The Capital Burger restaurant. Dressed in dark attire, he sat at an adjacent table, using his foot to stealthily slide Noem’s Gucci bag away. After surveying the area, he covered the bag with his jacket and left the restaurant unnoticed.
Noem only became aware of the missing bag upon rising from her table. Inside were valuable items including a Louis Vuitton wallet, her driver’s licence, medication, keys, passport, a Department of Homeland Security access badge, a makeup bag, blank cheques, and approximately $3000 in cash. The cash was reportedly for Noem to treat her family, who were visiting for the Easter celebrations.
Despite the incident occurring in close proximity to Noem, it is still unclear if the thief knew her identity or if she was merely a target of opportunity. The Secret Service was present but details regarding the number of agents and their positioning remain undisclosed.
Commenting on the incident, a Secret Service spokesperson stated that further information would be released in accordance with legal protocols once charges are filed. Following the theft, concerns have been raised within law enforcement circles about the security implications, given the thief’s audacity in targeting a Cabinet official so closely.
The perpetrator’s actions have prompted discussions about potential lapses in security, especially since Noem was accompanied by protective agents at the time. The ongoing investigation aims to clarify the circumstances surrounding the theft and to apprehend additional suspects involved in the theft ring.