Former Rep. Eric Swalwell investigated over assault allegations, resigns

A new push for accountability is underway as Eric Swalwell faces a criminal investigation following his resignation from Congress.

(NBC)- A new push for accountability is underway as Eric Swalwell faces a criminal investigation following his resignation from Congress.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department confirms it is looking into allegations made by Lonna Drewes, who claims Swalwell drugged her drink, raped and choked her in a California hotel room in 2018.

“I lost consciousness, and I thought I died,” Drewes said.

She says she met Swalwell socially while pursuing a potential business relationship. Although she did not report the alleged assault at the time, Drewes says she confided in others and documented her experience in handwritten notes.

She says her delay in coming forward was due to fear.

“[It] was driven by fear, not doubt,” she said.

Swalwell, a married father of three, has denied all allegations of sexual assault or misconduct. He acknowledged past “mistakes in judgment” but rejected the claims against him.

His attorney called the accusations “false, fabricated and deeply offensive,” alleging they are part of a political attack.

Additional allegations have surfaced from other women, including a former staffer who told CBS News their relationship began professionally before becoming inappropriate.

Swalwell resigned from Congress and dropped his run for California governor as fellow lawmakers threatened expulsion.

Also resigning the same day was Tony Gonzales, who previously admitted to an affair with a staffer.

“I made a mistake, and I had a lapse in judgment,” Gonzales said.

Despite the high-profile resignations, the balance of power in Congress remains unchanged.

Advocates say the developments could still spark broader conversations about accountability and conduct among elected officials.