Additional Coverage:
- Kristi Noem reveals bizarre reason for carrying $3,000 in purse before it was stolen (irishstar.com)
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s Purse Snatched in D.C., Contained $3,000 Cash
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem had her purse stolen from a Washington, D.C. restaurant on Sunday, and it contained not only the usual valuables, but also a hefty $3,000 in cash. The theft, which occurred in a downtown establishment, also included Noem’s DHS access badge, driver’s license, apartment keys, passport, medication, blank checks, and other personal items.
Restaurant security footage captured the alleged thief, described as a masked white male, according to CNN sources. Law enforcement is investigating the incident and using Noem’s financial information to aid in the search.
While a DHS spokesperson confirmed the incident to RealClearPolitics, details about Secret Service involvement were not disclosed. The spokesperson did clarify that Noem was carrying the large sum of cash to cover expenses for her visiting children and grandchildren, intending to treat them to meals, entertainment, and Easter gifts.
This incident comes on the heels of other controversies surrounding Secretary Noem. She recently faced criticism for a video depicting her improperly handling a rifle, and her past stances on immigration and controversial anecdotes from her memoir have also drawn public attention. Additionally, Noem’s travel expenses have been under scrutiny following a report by The Associated Press detailing over $150,000 in costs associated with her political and personal trips.