Former Congressman Swalwell Faces New Sexual Assault Allegation

Investigations expand as more women come forward with claims against the former California representative.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 7:34am

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A photorealistic painting of a hotel room door in warm, golden light, with deep shadows casting across the frame, conveying a sense of mystery and unease around the alleged incident.The hotel room where a former congressman allegedly assaulted a woman has become a focal point of the ongoing investigations.Los Angeles Today

Former U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell is facing a new and serious sexual assault allegation, as law enforcement officials in California confirm an active investigation into claims made by a woman who says he assaulted her in a hotel room in 2018. The accuser, Lonna Drewes, publicly detailed her allegations during a news conference, accusing Swalwell of drugging, raping, and choking her. Authorities have launched an investigation, and additional allegations have emerged from other women, prompting probes in multiple jurisdictions.

Why it matters

The growing number of sexual assault allegations against Swalwell, a former congressman and gubernatorial candidate, have significant political and legal implications. The investigations could result in criminal charges and further damage Swalwell's reputation and political future. The case also highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing sexual misconduct allegations, especially those involving powerful public figures.

The details

Drewes claims the alleged assault occurred during their third meeting, after she suspects her drink was drugged. She says she was incapacitated and unable to move when Swalwell persuaded her to accompany him to his hotel room. Drewes emphasized that she would not have consented to any sexual encounter, as she was in a committed relationship at the time. She did not report the incident to law enforcement immediately, citing fear of Swalwell's political influence and legal background. Authorities are now investigating the alleged incident, which they say occurred in July 2018 at a hotel in West Hollywood. In addition to the Los Angeles County inquiry, prosecutors in Alameda County and Manhattan are also investigating separate allegations against Swalwell.

  • The alleged assault occurred in July 2018 at a hotel in West Hollywood.
  • Drewes publicly detailed her allegations during a news conference on Tuesday, April 15, 2026.

The players

Eric Swalwell

A former U.S. Representative from California who is facing multiple sexual assault allegations, including a new claim by Lonna Drewes.

Lonna Drewes

A woman who has accused former Congressman Eric Swalwell of sexually assaulting her in a hotel room in 2018.

Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department

The law enforcement agency that has launched an investigation into the alleged sexual assault by Swalwell.

Alameda County Prosecutors

Prosecutors in Alameda County, California, who are evaluating whether any alleged misconduct by Swalwell occurred within their jurisdiction.

Manhattan District Attorney's Office

Prosecutors in New York City who have opened an investigation into an allegation involving an incident in New York against Swalwell.

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What they’re saying

“He raped me, and he choked me. And while he was choking me, I lost consciousness. I thought I died.”

— Lonna Drewes, Accuser

“These accusations are fabricated, deeply offensive, and represent a calculated political attack.”

— Sara Azari, Attorney for Eric Swalwell

“I stand with the other women who've come forward.”

— Lonna Drewes, Accuser

What’s next

Authorities indicated that the case is in its early stages, and once the investigation is completed, the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office will decide whether to file criminal charges against Swalwell.

The takeaway

The growing number of sexual assault allegations against a prominent former politician like Swalwell highlights the ongoing challenges of addressing misconduct claims, especially those involving powerful public figures. The investigations could have significant political and legal consequences, underscoring the need for thorough and impartial inquiries into such serious allegations.