A new sexual assault allegation against former Congressman Eric Swalwell is now under active investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, according to an official statement released Tuesday.
Authorities said they are examining a report filed by Lonna Drewes, 50, who claims she was sexually assaulted by Swalwell in July 2018 at a business located in the 900 block of Hammond Street in West Hollywood.
Investigators stressed the case is still in its early stages and remains ongoing, with evidence collection, interviews and follow-up inquiries currently underway.
Once completed, the case will be forwarded to the Los Angeles County District’s Attorney’s Office for review and potential filing decisions.
The Sheriff’s Department confirmed its Special Victims Bureau is handling the matter, which focuses on investigating felonious sexual assaults involving adult victims, as well as abuse cases involving children.
The statement did not include findings or conclusions, but confirmed that a formal investigation is in progress.
Drewes claims she met Swalwell under the impression she was developing a professional relationship tied to her fashion software business.
She alleges that during their encounter in West Hollywood, she was drugged after consuming a spiked drink and later sexually assaulted, including claims of choking and rape.
Drewes described the aftermath as deeply traumatic, saying she was left “crying all the time.”
Her account adds to a growing number of recent allegations made against Swalwell, which include other claims of sexual misconduct spanning several years.Swalwell has not publicly responded to the latest allegation described in the sheriff’s statement.
