Swalwell Resigns as LA Sheriff Opens Rape Investigation
Los Angeles sheriff opened a probe into Lonna Drewes' July 2018 rape claim as Swalwell resigned and Gov. Newsom set a special election for Aug. 18.
CNBCEric Swalwell investigated for alleged rape of Lonna Drewes, LA County Sheriff's Dept. says
FOX NewsFormer Swalwell ally says longtime friendship with him 'clouded my judgement' as rumors swirled in DC
Washington ExaminerNewsom sets date for special election to fill Swalwell's House seat
RedStateSwalwell Refuses to Go Quietly Into the Night As Lawyer Issues Statement Saying It's All a 'Hit Job'
Overview
The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said on Tuesday it opened an investigation into claims that former Rep. Eric Swalwell raped Lonna Drewes in July 2018.
Lonna Drewes told reporters she believes Swalwell drugged her drink, choked and raped her in a West Hollywood hotel room in July 2018, and attorney Lisa Bloom said she will file a police report.
Swalwell has denied criminal wrongdoing, his attorney Sara Azari called the allegations false and politically motivated, and the Manhattan District Attorney's Office and the House Ethics Committee have opened investigations.
Swalwell resigned from Congress effective Tuesday and Republican Rep. Tony Gonzales also resigned effective 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, and Gov. Gavin Newsom scheduled a special election for Aug. 18 to fill Swalwell's seat.
Los Angeles County Sheriff's investigators said they will present their findings to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office for filing consideration, while lawmakers called for broader scrutiny of congressional culture and possible expulsions.
Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame the story by foregrounding the accuser's detailed, emotive account and the political fallout, while still reporting denials. They emphasize investigative actions and party distancing, juxtaposing graphic allegations with official rebuttals. Editorial choices—quote selection, sequence, and contextual links to other claims—shape a narrative of serious allegations prompting swift consequences.