Lonna Drewes has publicly accused U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell of rape, an alleged incident that occurred in 2018. Drewes, represented by attorney Lisa Bloom, announced her intention to file a report with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department regarding the alleged assault.

Allegations Detailed at Press Conference

Speaking at a press conference in Beverly Hills, California, on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, Drewes shared details of her allegations. This announcement comes shortly after Swalwell’s decision to withdraw from the California gubernatorial race and his subsequent plan to resign from his congressional seat.

Drewes stated that the alleged rape took place in a Southern California hotel. She recounted consuming a single glass of wine and believes she may have been drugged by Swalwell before the assault. The Associated Press typically does not identify individuals alleging sexual assault unless they come forward publicly.

Background and Previous Accusations

Swalwell’s withdrawal from the gubernatorial race and planned resignation from Congress followed earlier accusations of sexual misconduct from at least one other woman. These earlier allegations were published by the San Francisco Chronicle and later by CNN.

Swalwell had previously denied allegations of sexual assault but acknowledged unspecified errors in judgment. He had stated, "I will fight the serious, false allegations that have been made — but that’s my fight, not a campaign’s." Elias Debaie, Swalwell's attorney, did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Details of the Alleged Incident

Drewes, who was working as a model and running a fashion software company in Beverly Hills at the time, met Swalwell twice before the alleged assault. She mentioned that Swalwell had offered to help her expand her company, aware of her interest in local politics.

According to Drewes, they met at a restaurant opening and were en route to a political event when Swalwell suggested they stop at his hotel room. Upon entering the room, Drewes reported feeling heavy-limbed and experiencing sensations consistent with being drugged.

Reporting and Documentation

Although Drewes did not undergo a rape kit examination, she reported the alleged assault to close contacts and documented it in her personal journal. She also discussed the incident during therapy sessions at a sexual assault center in Connecticut.

Attorney Lisa Bloom indicated that journal entries, along with text messages and photographs, will be included in the report to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The news conference aimed to bring the alleged transgressions to light as the details of the incident and Drewes’ decision to come forward became public.

If you or someone you know needs assistance, resources are available, including the national sexual assault hotline in the U.S. at 1-800-656-4673.