U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem speaks during a media interview outside the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., March 10, 2025. Photo by Nathan Howard/REUTERS

Homeland Security Secretary Noem’s purse stolen at restaurant, officials say

Nation

WASHINGTON (AP) — Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's purse was stolen at a Washington, D.C. restaurant Sunday night, according to department officials.

The department in an email said Noem had money in her purse to buy gifts for her children and grandchildren and to pay for Easter dinner and other activities.

The department in an email didn't specify what was stolen, but CNN — which was first to report the story — said the thief took about $3,000 in cash, as well as Noem's keys, driver's license, passport, checks, makeup bag, medication and Homeland Security badge. The department said Noem had cash in her purse to pay for gifts, dinner and other activities for her family on Easter.

READ MORE: DHS Secretary Noem taps new leaders for ICE and moves to identify leakers inside agency

The Homeland Security Secretary is protected by U.S. Secret Service agents. The Secret Service referred questions about the incident to Homeland Security headquarters.

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Homeland Security Secretary Noem’s purse stolen at restaurant, officials say first appeared on the PBS News website.

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