WASHINGTON, D.C. – Kristi Noem, the U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security, became the victim of a theft over the weekend when her purse was stolen while dining at a restaurant in the nation’s capital.
The incident occurred on April 20, and was confirmed by both the Secret Service and Tricia McLaughlin, the DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs.
What Was Stolen?
The stolen items included:
- Kristi Noem’s passport
- Driver’s license
- Government access badge
- Keys
- $3,000 in cash
- Blank checks
- Medication and makeup bag, according to CNN
Tricia McLaughlin told reporters that Secretary Noem was in Washington to celebrate Easter with her family, including her children and grandchildren, and had taken them out for dinner and activities.
Secret Service Launches Investigation
The U.S. Secret Service has begun an investigation into the theft and is now working to trace any misuse of Noem’s financial items, including the checks and bank information, as confirmed by CNN.
Given Noem’s current high-ranking role in the federal government, the loss of her government access badge and personal identification documents is considered a serious security matter.
Background: Who Is Kristi Noem?
Before becoming the Homeland Security Secretary, Noem served as the Governor of South Dakota and was previously a Republican member of Congress. Her rise through national politics has made her a prominent voice in conservative circles.