Two illegal aliens brazenly targeted Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, stealing her purse during an Easter meal in Washington, D.C.
Breitbart reported that Mario Bustamante-Leiva, 49, and Cristian Rodrigo Montecino-Sanzana, 51, both from Chile, face accusations in a crime that exposes the dangers of lax immigration policies. Their alleged actions highlight a broader issue of criminal networks exploiting America’s vulnerabilities.
The theft occurred while Noem dined with family at Capital Burger in Washington, D.C. Bustamante-Leiva and Montecino-Sanzana, suspected members of a South American theft ring, stole Noem’s purse containing $3,000 in cash, her passport, DHS access card, apartment key, makeup bag, and medication.
Bustamante-Leiva’s criminal history stretches across continents and years. In 2015, London authorities arrested him for a theft spree involving $28,000 worth of phones, wallets, and computers. A 2021 shoplifting arrest in Utah further marks his record, showing a pattern of disregard for the law.
Weeks before the D.C. theft, Bustamante-Leiva struck in New York City. He allegedly stole a fanny pack from a Times Square shop, racking up $1,200 in credit card charges in just 20 minutes.
The New York City Police Department charged him with fourth-degree felony grand larceny, but the consequences were minimal.
New York’s sanctuary laws shielded Bustamante-Leiva from federal immigration scrutiny. Despite his illegal status, the NYPD could not report him to authorities, allowing him to evade deportation. This policy enabled his continued criminal activity across state lines.
After his New York arrest, Bustamante-Leiva received a desk appearance ticket and was released. He predictably skipped his court date, prompting the NYPD’s warrant squad to search for him. His ability to slip through the system reflects the failures of soft-on-crime policies.
In Washington, D.C., Bustamante-Leiva allegedly struck again, targeting Noem’s purse. The theft disrupted a family Easter meal, leaving Noem without critical items like her DHS access card and medication. The incident exposed vulnerabilities even for high-ranking officials.
Authorities arrested Bustamante-Leiva in Washington, D.C., for the purse theft. His accomplice, Montecino-Sanzana, faced arrest in Miami, Florida, for his role in the crime. Both men’s actions point to a coordinated effort beyond a single incident.
The stolen purse held items of significant personal and national security value. The $3,000 cash and Noem’s passport were losses enough, but the DHS access card raised concerns about potential misuse. This theft was not merely petty but a calculated strike.
Bustamante-Leiva and Montecino-Sanzana are believed to be part of a South American theft ring. This network targets wealthy Americans and legal immigrants, often through brazen home invasions. Their operations exploit America’s porous borders and lenient legal systems.
“They picked the wrong person to steal a purse from,” said Tom Homan, former Trump administration Border Czar. His statement reflects the outrage over criminals targeting a key homeland security figure. Noem’s high profile made her a prime target for such a ring.
The theft ring’s tactics reveal a sophisticated criminal enterprise. By focusing on high-value targets, they maximize profits while sowing fear among law-abiding citizens. Their presence in multiple cities shows a troubling reach.
New York’s sanctuary laws played a critical role in enabling Bustamante-Leiva’s crime spree. “New York’s sanctuary laws meant that the NYPD was not allowed to report him to federal immigration authorities,” noted a report, highlighting how these policies protect criminals over citizens. This restriction allowed an illegal alien to roam free.
The consequences of such laws extend beyond New York. Bustamante-Leiva’s ability to commit crimes in Utah, New York, and Washington, D.C., shows how sanctuary policies create a haven for lawbreakers. Americans deserve better protection from those exploiting legal loopholes.