LA County district attorney investigating Eric Swalwell over sexual assault allegation

Topline:

The details: Lonna Drewes, a former model who works in fashion technology, alleged at a news conference Tuesday that Swalwell offered her connections and drugged, choked and raped her in July 2018. Drewes’ attorney, Lisa Bloom, said Tuesday that they would also be filing a report with the Sheriff’s Department, which patrols West Hollywood.

Resignation: Swalwell, a Democrat who represented a Bay Area district, has forcefully denied any allegations of sexual misconduct or assault. He resigned from Congress Monday and dropped out of the race for California governor a day earlier after a series of women came forward with sexual assault or sexual misconduct allegations. He had been a frontrunner in the race. His attorney has said the former Congress member "categorically and unequivocally denies each and every allegation of sexual misconduct and assault that has been leveled against him."

DA statement: Nathan Hochman, the county district attorney, issued a statement saying the office’s Sex Crime Division was working with law enforcement to look into the matter. “When and if a case is presented, seasoned prosecutors will review the facts and evidence to determine whether there is sufficient evidence for charges to be filed,” Hochman said. “When a filing decision is made, we will ensure the public is made aware.”

Sheriff's Department: The Sheriff’s Department said its Special Victims Bureau is investigating the case and is "in the process of gathering information, reviewing available evidence, and conducting follow up inquiries as part of a comprehensive investigative process."

Manhattan DA: The district attorney of Manhattan also has opened a criminal investigation into Swalwell over allegations he sexually assaulted a woman in New York in 2024.