A formal investigation has been launched by the Los Angeles District Attorney into allegations of sexual assault against Congressman Eric Swalwell. The inquiry was confirmed by District Attorney Nathan Hochman following a press conference where a fifth accuser publicly detailed disturbing claims.
The latest accusation comes from Lonna Drews, who alleges a brutal assault occurred in a West Hollywood hotel room in 2018. Drews, represented by attorney Lisa Bloom, claims Swalwell drugged her drink before the attack, leading to a terrifying ordeal where she lost consciousness.
Drews recounted a harrowing experience, stating Swalwell violently raped and choked her, leaving her fearing for her life. She emphatically stated that the encounter was non-consensual and that she would never have willingly engaged in sexual activity with him, despite knowing he was married and his wife was pregnant at the time.
Attorney Lisa Bloom revealed that three additional women have contacted her office within the last 24 hours with similar accusations against Swalwell. Bloom called for Swalwell to resign from Congress and withdraw from his current gubernatorial campaign, pledging full cooperation with the ongoing investigation.
This investigation in Los Angeles is not an isolated incident. Swalwell is also currently under scrutiny by the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office following allegations made by a former staffer.
The former staffer alleges she was sexually assaulted by Swalwell in 2019, and again in 2024 after leaving his employment. She described the 2024 assault as particularly aggressive, recalling fragmented memories of being overpowered and physically restrained.
The staffer recounted a disturbing lapse in memory during the 2024 incident, stating she has only flashes of the assault, remembering waking up the following day with a terrifying realization of what had occurred. She emphasized the forceful and unwanted nature of the encounter.
The Los Angeles District Attorney’s office has assigned its Sex Crimes Division to collaborate with law enforcement partners as the investigation progresses. Hochman stated that prosecutors will meticulously review all evidence to determine if sufficient grounds exist for criminal charges, and the public will be informed of any filing decisions.
