Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem recently became the target of a theft while dining in Washington, D.C. The incident has sparked public attention due to both the security concerns and the large amount of cash stolen from her purse.
Purse Taken from Restaurant
The theft happened on Sunday, April 20, at a restaurant in Washington, D.C. According to reports, Noem’s purse was stolen and it contained roughly $3,000 in cash. This detail raised eyebrows online. A spokesperson from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) told Newsweek that Noem had the cash with her because she was “treating her family to dinner, activities and Easter gifts.”
Public Questions Her Personal Finances
The fact that Noem, a high-ranking federal official, was carrying such a large amount of cash led to questions about her finances. Many began looking into her net worth and how she manages her money. As of early 2025, Newsweek reported that her net worth was estimated to be about $1 million, based on a federal financial disclosure.
Breakdown of Noem’s Assets and Salary
Kristi Noem owns farmland, a home in South Dakota, and a range of investments. Her current salary as the Secretary of Homeland Security is $250,600 annually, which is a significant jump from the $122,000 she earned during her time as South Dakota’s governor.
A disclosure filed in August 2024 showed that she owns various assets including bank accounts and agricultural holdings. Her property in Castlewood, South Dakota, is valued between $250,001 and $500,000. Although it is her listed residence, it is classified as pastureland.
Mortgage and Other Assets
Kristi Noem and her husband, Bryon Noem, have a mortgage on their home estimated between $100,001 and $250,000. The loan has an interest rate of 1.875 percent and runs for 15 years. The same disclosure revealed that she had $265,000 in savings, along with livestock and equipment worth up to $100,000.
Surveillance Captured the Suspect
After the theft, the Secret Service reviewed surveillance footage. According to CNN, the video showed “an unknown white male wearing a medical mask” stealing Noem’s purse and leaving the restaurant. In addition to the cash, the thief also took her driver’s license, apartment keys, and her DHS access badge.
