California Woman Accuses Former Rep. Eric Swalwell of 2018 Sexual Assault

A California woman, Lonna Drewes, has publicly accused former Representative Eric Swalwell of drugging and sexually assaulting her in 2018. Drewes, who was working as a model in Beverly Hills at the time, stated that she met Swalwell on three occasions while developing her fashion software company and considering a political career. On their third meeting, she alleges that after consuming a single glass of wine, she became incapacitated and lost consciousness. Drewes recounted, "He raped me and he choked me and while he was choking me I lost consciousness and I thought I died." She emphasized that she did not consent to any sexual activity.

Swalwell's attorney, Elias Dabaie, did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Swalwell has previously denied all allegations of sexual misconduct, while acknowledging unspecified "mistakes." The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department has initiated an investigation into Drewes' claims, stating that the inquiry is in its preliminary stages and ongoing. The department is gathering information, reviewing available evidence, and conducting follow-up inquiries as part of a comprehensive investigative process.

Drewes disclosed that she did not undergo a rape kit test but shared details of the alleged assault with close associates and documented it in her calendar. She mentioned that the incident severely impacted her mental health, leading her to seek therapy at a sexual assault center. Drewes expressed that she had no romantic interest in Swalwell and was drawn to his friendship due to his touted connections that she believed could help her grow her businesses. At the time, she was in a relationship, and Swalwell had a pregnant wife.

The alleged assault has prompted further scrutiny of Swalwell, who recently resigned from Congress amid multiple sexual misconduct allegations. The House Ethics Committee had opened an investigation into these claims, and bipartisan pressure had mounted for his resignation. Swalwell, who had been a leading contender in California's gubernatorial race, suspended his campaign following the allegations. In his resignation statement, he apologized for past "mistakes in judgment" while reaffirming his intention to contest the allegations.

Drewes' attorney, Lisa Bloom, known for representing high-profile victims of sexual misconduct, stated that they would provide text messages, journal entries, and photographs to the police to support Drewes' claims. Bloom emphasized the importance of accountability over silence, stating, "Lonna deserves what all women deserve — autonomy over her own body." The Manhattan District Attorney's Office has also launched an investigation into the allegations against Swalwell.