A Chilean illegal immigrant has been sentenced to three years in prison for wire fraud and theft, including stealing former Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem’s handbag. Mario Bustamante Leiva, a 50-year-old Chilean illegal immigrant, admitted guilt to three separate wire fraud charges plus one count of first-degree theft after preying on women dining at restaurants in Washington, D.C., in April 2025.
Leiva was caught on surveillance cameras methodically targeting women at restaurants, stealing their purses, and using stolen credit cards and personal information for fraudulent purchases within minutes. During his crime, Leiva stole Noem’s Gucci handbag—containing several credit cards and $3,000 in cash—while she was dining with her family at Capital Burger. Prosecutors noted his actions were premeditated and executed with precision.
“Bustamante Leiva came to Washington illegally to prey on citizens of the District. He methodically targeted women at restaurants, stealing their purses, and monetized the stolen cards within minutes. His pattern of theft ends here. He will serve his prison term and be deported,” said U.S. Attorney Jeanine Pirro.
Leiva faces deportation upon completing his prison sentence. The case underscores growing concerns about illegal immigrants engaging in serious criminal activity within U.S. communities.
