Lonna Drewes, a model and fashion software company owner, has become the fifth woman to publicly accuse U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell of sexual assault. Drewes detailed her allegations at a press conference on April 14, 2026, in Beverly Hills, claiming Swalwell drugged her drink and sexually assaulted her in 2018. She stated, "He raped me and he choked me," adding that she lost consciousness during the alleged assault.
The accuser described meeting Swalwell via Twitter, then X, where he responded to her inquiries about local politics. She considered him a friend who offered networking opportunities for her fashion software business. Drewes alleges Swalwell invited her to a hotel room, purportedly to retrieve paperwork before a political event. She has also stated that Swalwell sent her flirty messages and invited her to his hotel room, which she initially declined.
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This latest accusation comes as the U.S. House Ethics Committee announced its own investigation into Swalwell on Monday. At least five women have now presented claims against the California Democrat, including allegations of rape, sexual assault, and unwanted messages and photos. In response to the escalating situation, Swalwell confirmed on Monday that he would resign from the House, though he has not provided a specific date for his departure. His attorneys have indicated he intends to contest the allegations.
A Pattern of Allegations
Drewes' account aligns with earlier accusations, with several women alleging that Swalwell drugged and sexually assaulted them. Her attorney, Lisa Bloom, stated plans to file a police report with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department. Bloom also indicated that three other women have contacted her since the press conference was announced.
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The emergence of Drewes' allegations follows reports detailing an account from a former staffer who accused Swalwell of sexual assault on two occasions when she was allegedly too intoxicated to consent. This has amplified scrutiny on the congressman. Drewes, a prominent figure on social media, often shares content related to high-fashion photography and her global cultural interests, projecting an image that contrasts with the accusations.
The alleged incident described by Drewes reportedly had a profound emotional impact, leading her to state, "I cried all the time for years." She expressed fear in coming forward against a powerful figure. Swalwell, a former Democratic representative, was serving in Congress at the time of the alleged events. Drewes noted she was aware Swalwell was married and that his wife was pregnant at the time of their encounter.
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