The Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office has confirmed that its Sex Crimes Division is actively investigating former Congressman Eric Swalwell over allegations of sexual misconduct. The investigation, conducted in collaboration with local law enforcement, represents a significant development in a case that has drawn widespread attention following explosive public allegations made earlier this week.
The allegations were brought forward by Lonna Drewes, a former model who transitioned into the fashion technology industry. During a press conference held on Tuesday, Drewes accused Swalwell of assaulting her in West Hollywood, California in 2018. According to her account, Swalwell allegedly offered career connections before drugging, choking, and raping her. Drewes stated that fear prevented her from coming forward for years.
Drewes explained that she felt intimidated by Swalwell's political influence, legal background, and connections to law enforcement. Despite these concerns, she maintained that she never doubted what occurred during the alleged incident. Her decision to speak publicly now marks a turning point in what has become a multi-jurisdictional investigation.
Attorney Lisa Bloom, representing Drewes, confirmed that a formal police report has been filed with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. The filing includes what Bloom described as supporting evidence, which encompasses text messages, journal entries, and photographs. The inclusion of contemporaneous documentation could prove significant as investigators evaluate the allegations.
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has acknowledged the investigation, characterizing it as preliminary but ongoing. Detectives are currently gathering evidence and conducting interviews as part of the investigative process. The department's involvement underscores the seriousness with which local law enforcement is treating the allegations.
As of now, no criminal charges have been filed against Swalwell. The District Attorney's Office has indicated that prosecutors will ultimately determine whether the evidence meets the threshold necessary to pursue charges. This decision will likely depend on the findings of the ongoing investigation and the strength of the evidence presented.
The Los Angeles investigation is not the only legal scrutiny Swalwell currently faces. The House Ethics Committee announced on April 13 that it has opened an investigation into the allegations against the former Congressman. Additionally, the Manhattan District Attorney is conducting a separate investigation related to allegations against Swalwell, expanding the scope of legal inquiries beyond California.
These developments follow Swalwell's withdrawal from California's gubernatorial race on Sunday. His exit came after sexual assault and misconduct allegations emerged from a former staff member and at least three other women. The timing of his departure from the race, coupled with the multiple investigations now underway, has created a complex legal and political situation for the former lawmaker.
The investigation by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Sex Crimes Division represents a critical phase in addressing these serious allegations. As detectives continue their work and prosecutors evaluate the evidence, the case will likely remain under intense public scrutiny. The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications not only for those directly involved but also for broader conversations about accountability and justice in cases involving allegations of sexual misconduct.