DHS Secretary Kristi Noem Victim of Theft During Dinner in Washington, DC

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem experienced a security scare Sunday night after her bag was stolen while dining at a downtown Washington, DC, restaurant. The incident was confirmed by Noem on Monday during her appearance at the White House Easter Egg Roll.

The theft occurred at Capital Burger, where security camera footage reviewed by the Secret Service showed an unidentified White male wearing a medical mask taking Noem’s bag and exiting the premises.

According to a law enforcement source, the stolen bag contained highly sensitive and personal items, including Noem’s driver’s license, passport, DHS access badge, medication, apartment keys, makeup bag, blank checks, and approximately $3,000 in cash.

A DHS spokesperson explained that Noem had made a cash withdrawal to treat her visiting family—including her children and grandchildren—to a special Easter weekend filled with activities and gifts.

The Secret Service has launched an investigation to trace any unauthorized use of Noem’s financial instruments and to determine whether operational protocols need to be revised.

Law enforcement analysts have expressed serious concern about the breach, especially given Noem’s high-ranking position and public profile.

“This is a security breach that actually has high consequences and it needs immediate and further review by the Secret Service, DHS, and other law enforcement partners,” said Jonathan Wackrow, a CNN law enforcement analyst and former Secret Service agent.

He added that such incidents expose vulnerabilities in the protection of high-level officials and may prompt procedural changes for handling private events involving Cabinet members.