“I did not consent to any sexual activity,” Lonna Drewes stated during a press conference in Beverly Hills on April 14, 2026, as she detailed her harrowing allegations against Congressman Eric Swalwell. The claims, which include accusations of drugging and rape, have sent shockwaves through the political landscape, prompting an ongoing investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
The incident allegedly occurred on July 1, 2018, in West Hollywood, California, where Drewes asserts that Swalwell invited her to his hotel room after they met at two public events. “He invited me to two public events. I knew he was married at the time and that his wife was pregnant,” Drewes recounted, highlighting the complexities of their interactions leading up to the alleged assault.
According to Drewes, when she arrived at Swalwell’s hotel room, she was already incapacitated. “When I arrived at his hotel room, I was already incapacitated, and I couldn’t move my arms or my body,” she explained, emphasizing her inability to consent. Her claims are supported by her documentation of the incident in her journal and disclosures to close friends shortly after the event.
In the wake of these allegations, Swalwell has categorically denied any wrongdoing, asserting that he has never engaged in sexual misconduct or assault. “I thought I died,” Drewes expressed, reflecting the profound impact the incident has had on her life. The emotional toll of such experiences is often compounded by the public nature of the accusations, particularly when they involve high-profile figures.
Attorney Lisa Bloom, who is representing Drewes, has indicated plans to file a police report detailing the allegations formally. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has confirmed that they are in the preliminary stages of an investigation, reviewing available evidence and conducting follow-up inquiries. This investigation is crucial not only for Drewes but also for the broader implications it holds for Swalwell’s political career.
Prior to Drewes’ allegations, Swalwell had faced accusations of sexual misconduct from other women, raising questions about a pattern of behavior. The convergence of these allegations has intensified scrutiny on Swalwell, who recently announced his resignation from his congressional seat amid the growing controversy. This decision reflects the serious nature of the claims against him and the potential ramifications for his political future.
As the investigation unfolds, both Drewes and Swalwell are likely to remain in the public eye, with ongoing discussions about consent, accountability, and the treatment of sexual assault allegations in the political arena. The outcome of this case may set significant precedents for how such allegations are handled in the future.
Details remain unconfirmed as the investigation continues, and both parties prepare for the next steps in this highly publicized case.
