The Los Angeles District Attorney's Office has formally opened a criminal investigation into former Democratic Congressman Eric Swalwell, confirming that its Sex Crimes Division is now examining allegations of sexual misconduct against the recently resigned lawmaker. District Attorney Nathan Hochman stated his office is coordinating with law enforcement partners as the probe advances.
"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 in a statement to The Hill. "When a filing decision is made, we will ensure the public is made aware." The announcement follows a new, detailed allegation of sexual assault made against Swalwell earlier this week.
Lonna Drewes, a former model now working in fashion technology, publicly accused Swalwell at a press conference on Tuesday. She alleged that in 2018, the then-congressman offered her professional connections before drugging, choking, and raping her. "My delay in taking action against Eric was driven by fear, not doubt," Drewes stated. "Fear of his political power, his background as an attorney and his family law enforcement ties. I have never doubted what happened."
Her attorney, Lisa Bloom, said Drewes would file a formal police report with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department and urged authorities to conduct a "fully and prompt" investigation. This development comes as Swalwell and fellow Democrat Rep. Gonzales resigned from Congress this week under mounting pressure from multiple accusers.
Swalwell has vehemently denied all allegations through his attorney, Sara Azari, who characterized the claims as a deliberate smear campaign. "Congressman Eric Swalwell categorically and unequivocally denies each and every allegation of sexual misconduct and assault that has been leveled against him," Azari said in a statement. Azari also serves as a legal analyst for NewsNation, a sister network to The Hill.
The former congressman's resignation on Tuesday came after four women initially came forward with allegations of sexual misconduct, one of whom also accused him of assault. The situation has triggered a broader political reckoning, with some observers noting it contributes to a renewed #MeToo moment for Congress as multiple lawmakers face similar scandals.
The criminal investigation by the Los Angeles DA represents a significant escalation, moving the matter from the realm of political scandal to potential legal jeopardy. Prosecutors will now examine whether evidence supports criminal charges, a process that could unfold over weeks or months as law enforcement gathers statements and forensic evidence.
Political fallout continues to spread through California's Democratic circles. Fellow lawmakers have begun distancing themselves, with some, like Rep. Gallego, issuing strong condemnations. The vacuum left by Swalwell's sudden departure is also beginning to reshape the state's political landscape, potentially affecting upcoming electoral contests.
As the investigation proceeds, it places renewed scrutiny on how political institutions handle allegations against powerful members and the mechanisms for accountability when accusers come forward years after alleged incidents. The case will test the DA's office and could influence how similar allegations are treated against political figures in the future.
