Federal Investigation on Former Congressman Eric Swalwell Over Misconduct Allegations

Federal agents have taken significant steps in investigating allegations of sexual misconduct involving former Representative Eric Swalwell. According to a source familiar with the situation, electronic devices belonging to Swalwell were seized at San Francisco airport. Additionally, agents searched his Washington residence, an action taken as part of an investigation into claims of sexual misconduct.

The source, opting for anonymity due to the sensitivity of the ongoing investigation, confirmed the seizure and search. These actions were first reported by the Daily Mail. Swalwell, previously denying these allegations, had resigned from his congressional role in April.

Accusations against Swalwell initially surfaced in reports by the San Francisco Chronicle and CNN. The claims include allegations of sexual assault on two occasions, even when the accuser worked under him. Furthermore, CNN reported additional claims from three other women who accused Swalwell of sending unsolicited explicit messages.

Swalwell’s departure from Congress marked the end of his gubernatorial aspirations in California, where he had been considered a leading candidate. Following these allegations, the Manhattan District Attorney’s office, led by Alvin Bragg, confirmed a probe initiated after a former staffer’s claim of rape by Swalwell in New York. The office publicly urged individuals with knowledge of these incidents to contact their Special Victims Division.

Lonna Drewes, represented by attorney Arick Fudali, claimed in April that Swalwell raped her in 2018. Drewes and her legal team have pledged cooperation with law enforcement. The allegations reportedly occurred in a Southern California hotel, with Drewes recounting her experiences shortly after Swalwell’s political exit.

Swalwell, an Iowa native elected in 2012, once held a significant role as a Democratic adversary during Trump’s presidency. His political career highlights include participation in Trump’s second impeachment as a House Judiciary and Intelligence Committee member.

In 2023, House Speaker Kevin McCarthy removed Swalwell from the Intelligence Committee, citing prior engagements with Christine Fang, suspected of being a Chinese spy. Reports suggest Fang had links to Swalwell’s campaign as early as 2012 and was involved in fundraising activities. However, federal investigations closed with no accusations against Swalwell.