Purse Snatcher in Kristi Noem Case Linked to Previous Theft in New York

Purse Snatcher in Kristi Noem Case Linked to Previous Theft in New York

The illegal immigrant accused of stealing a purse belonging to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was apprehended in New York City weeks earlier. Reports indicate that Mario Bustamante Leiva, a 49-year-old Chilean national, was previously arrested for another purse theft.

Bustamante-Leiva’s Criminal Background

Bustamante-Leiva was arrested in Times Square after he stole a fanny pack from an international student dining at a Times Square dosa shop. The victim reported that within just 20 minutes, the suspect accumulated $1,200 in fraudulent credit card charges.

The New York Police Department issued Bustamante-Leiva a desk appearance ticket for grand larceny, classified as a fourth-degree felony, before releasing him from custody. This decision aligns with the city’s sanctuary policies, which restrict law enforcement from communicating with federal immigration officials regarding undocumented immigrants.

Failure to Appear in Court

After his release, Bustamante-Leiva failed to appear for his court date, prompting police to search for him. This lapse allowed him to target Secretary Noem on Easter Sunday while she dined with her family at The Capital Burger in Washington, D.C.

According to Bustamante-Leiva, he did not know the stolen bag belonged to the Homeland Security chief. However, his actions reveal a troubling pattern of behavior.

The Theft of Noem’s Luxury Bag

During the theft, Bustamante-Leiva allegedly took Noem’s luxury Gucci bag, which contained approximately $3,000 in cash, along with her driver’s license, passport, vital medications, makeup, blank checks, a DHS badge, apartment keys, and a Louis Vuitton wallet. The bag was left on the floor next to Noem’s table when it was stolen, according to police reports.

Subsequent Arrest

Authorities arrested Bustamante-Leiva the following Saturday with assistance from the Metropolitan Police Department and the Secret Service. Initially, he faced charges for robbery related to Noem’s case.

On Monday, the U.S. Secret Service escalated the matter by filing federal charges against him. These charges allege that Bustamante-Leiva committed three robberies between early April and late April 2025, following each theft with fraudulent purchases using the victims’ credit cards.

Video Evidence of Criminal Activity

Documents from the U.S. Attorney’s office indicate that Bustamante-Leiva was captured on surveillance footage shortly after the theft. In the video, he is seen spending $205.87 on food and alcohol at an Italian restaurant, just minutes after stealing Noem’s handbag.

The security camera footage displays a white male, wearing a dark cap and an N95 mask, grabbing the bag and quickly leaving the restaurant. This swift action underscores the calculated nature of the crime.

A Pattern of Criminal Behavior

Bustamante-Leiva has a history of criminal activity extending beyond this incident. His record includes a 2021 shoplifting arrest in Utah and significant charges filed in London in 2015. There, he was implicated in a prolonged theft spree, netting approximately $28,000 worth of stolen mobile devices, wallets, and laptops.

Accomplice Arrested

A second individual, believed to be Bustamante-Leiva’s accomplice in the theft of Noem’s purse, was also taken into custody. Although the accomplice’s identity remains undisclosed, officials reported that this suspect is currently being held on an immigration detainer pending completion of charges.

This series of events raises serious questions about the effectiveness of immigration enforcement and the broader implications it has for public safety. As federal authorities investigate further, many await clarity on how similar incidents can be prevented in the future.

Implications for Public Safety

The situation highlights ongoing concerns surrounding illegal immigration and crime in cities with sanctuary policies. Advocates for tougher immigration laws argue that these policies may hinder law enforcement’s ability to effectively manage crime, especially involving repeat offenders.

Bustamante-Leiva’s case represents more than a single crime; it illustrates the potential risks associated with allowing individuals with criminal backgrounds to remain in the country unlawfully. As the investigation continues, it enters a broader discussion about immigration reform and public safety in America.

This report features contributions from Fox News Digital reporters, including Greg Wehner, Stepheny Price, Landon Mion, and Stephen Sorace.