Sentencing of Purse Thief Linked to Kristi Noem's Robbery

Mario Bustamante Leiva, a 50-year-old Chilean national residing illegally in the United States, was sentenced to three years in prison for his involvement in a series of purse thefts, including the robbery of former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem's Gucci handbag. The incident occurred on April 20, 2025, while Noem was dining with her family at Capital Burger in Washington, D.C. During the theft, Bustamante Leiva stole Noem's purse, which contained approximately $3,000 in cash, credit cards, and personal identification documents, including her Department of Homeland Security access badge.

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Bustamante Leiva's criminal activities were not limited to Noem's purse; he was linked to multiple thefts targeting women at various restaurants in the D.C. area over three days in April 2025. He would surveil his victims before stealing their purses and subsequently use their credit cards for unauthorized purchases. Surveillance footage captured him stealing Noem's purse, where he seated himself close to her and methodically snatched the bag. He was arrested on April 26, 2025, at a motel where law enforcement recovered Noem's belongings along with other stolen items.

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In November 2025, Bustamante Leiva pleaded guilty to three counts of wire fraud and one count of first-degree theft. U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro stated that Bustamante Leiva "came to Washington illegally to prey on citizens of the District," emphasizing the calculated nature of his crimes. Following his prison term, he is expected to face deportation proceedings.

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Cristian Montecino-Sanzana, Bustamante Leiva's accomplice, was also implicated in the thefts. He was sentenced to 13 months in prison for his role in one of the earlier purse thefts. Both men face deportation upon completing their sentences.

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Jeanine Pirro remarked on the case, stating, "His pattern of theft ends here. He will serve his prison term and be deported." Kristi Noem, reflecting on the incident, described Bustamante Leiva as "a career criminal who has been in our country illegally for years," highlighting the broader implications of crime related to illegal immigration.

KMBC - Kansas City News

While the case has drawn attention due to Noem's high-profile position, there has been no indication that the theft was politically motivated. Investigators clarified that it appeared to be a crime of opportunity rather than a targeted attack against Noem due to her government role.

MEAWW

Following Bustamante Leiva's sentencing, the focus will shift to immigration enforcement, with plans for his deportation after serving his prison term. The case underscores ongoing discussions about crime and immigration policy in the United States, particularly regarding illegal immigrants involved in criminal activities.

D.C. man gets 3 years for stealing Kristi Noem’s purse

• “Bustamante Leiva came to Washington illegally to prey on citizens of the District.” — Jeanine Pirro, U.S. Attorney

WJLA - ABC 7

• “His pattern of theft ends here.” — Jeanine Pirro, U.S. Attorney

New York Times

• “This individual is a career criminal who has been in our country illegally for years,” — Kristi Noem, former DHS Secretary

New York Post