“I did not consent to any sexual activity,” stated Lonna Drewes during a press conference in Beverly Hills on April 14, 2026, where she detailed her allegations against Eric Swalwell. Drewes claims that Swalwell drugged and raped her in July 2018, an incident that has since prompted an investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
The allegations come from a troubling account where Drewes asserts she was incapacitated and unable to move her arms or body during the alleged assault. “When I arrived at his hotel room, I was already incapacitated, and I couldn’t move my arms or my body,” she explained, emphasizing the severity of her condition at that moment. This assertion raises significant concerns about consent and the circumstances surrounding the encounter.
Drewes, who was a model and owned a fashion software company at the time she met Swalwell, disclosed the alleged assault to people close to her and documented it in her journal. She has since sought legal representation from attorney Lisa Bloom, who plans to file a police report detailing the allegations. “He invited me to two public events. I knew he was married at the time and that his wife was pregnant,” Drewes added, highlighting the complexities of their interaction.
Swalwell has categorically denied all allegations of sexual misconduct and assault. His response to the claims has been firm, asserting his innocence amidst the serious accusations. However, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has opened an investigation into the matter, which is currently in its preliminary stages. They are reviewing available evidence and conducting follow-up inquiries to ascertain the facts surrounding the case.
Details remain unconfirmed as the investigation unfolds, but the implications of Drewes’ allegations are significant, especially considering that Swalwell has faced accusations of sexual misconduct from several other women prior to this incident. The ongoing scrutiny of his actions raises questions about accountability and the treatment of such serious allegations in the political arena.
As the investigation continues, Drewes’ claims have sparked a broader conversation about consent and the responsibilities of public figures. The outcome of this inquiry may not only affect Swalwell’s political career but also contribute to the ongoing discourse surrounding sexual assault and the importance of believing survivors.
With Swalwell announcing his resignation from his congressional seat amid these allegations, the political landscape is poised for potential shifts. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s findings will be crucial in determining the next steps for both Drewes and Swalwell, as the public awaits further developments in this serious matter.