U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell Resigns from Congress as Sexual Assault Allegations Prompt Investigations; Separate Probe Targets Katy Perry in Australia
U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell resigned from Congress effective Tuesday after suspending his California governor campaign amid allegations of sexual assault by model Lonna Drewes. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department is investigating claims of rape in 2018. Separately, Australian police are probing actor Ruby Rose's accusation against singer Katy Perry from nearly 20 years ago.
The Washington TimesS. Rep. S. Representative Eric Swalwell, a Democrat from California, announced on Monday that he would resign his seat in the House of Representatives. The resignation became effective on Tuesday. Swalwell has served 13 years in Congress.
Swalwell suspended his campaign for California governor on Sunday. He exited the California governor's race amid allegations of sexual assault. Swalwell is 45 years old and has three children with his wife.
" He denied any criminal wrongdoing in recent public statements and admitted to unspecified mistakes in judgment in his past.
Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Investigates Allegations Against Swalwell The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department opened an investigation into claims that Eric Swalwell raped Lonna Drewes in a West Hollywood hotel room in July 2018.
The department's Special Victims Bureau is investigating the case. The investigation is in its preliminary stages and ongoing. Investigators from the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department are gathering information, reviewing evidence, and conducting follow-up inquiries.
The department will present the case to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office for filing consideration upon completion. Lonna Drewes, a model, alleged at a press conference on April 14, 2026, in Beverly Hills, California, that Eric Swalwell drugged her drink, choked her, and raped her after inviting her to his hotel room.
Drewes stated she had one glass of wine and became incapacitated, unable to move her arms or body.
She stated she did not consent to any sexual activity. Drewes stated Swalwell invited her to two public events while he was married and his wife was pregnant. Lisa Bloom is Lonna Drewes' attorney. Bloom stated she would file a police report detailing allegations against Eric Swalwell.
" She stated to Eric Swalwell that his recent statement about not being perfect or a saint is blather and spin. Bloom stated that Swalwell's claim that this is a matter between him and his wife is laughable and a slap in the face to victims. Sara Azari is Eric Swalwell's attorney.
Azari stated that Eric Swalwell categorically and unequivocally denies each and every allegation of sexual misconduct and assault. Azari stated that the accusations against Eric Swalwell are false, fabricated, and a political hit job.
Swalwell Faces Separate Investigation in New York Eric Swalwell is under criminal investigation by the Manhattan District Attorney's Office in New York City in connection with another alleged assault.
Swalwell spoke at the 2026 California Democratic Party State Convention in San Francisco on Saturday, February.
Australian Police Investigate Katy Perry Assault Claim A police investigation is underway in Australia after Katy Perry was accused of sexual assault by Ruby Rose.
Victoria Police issued a statement about the investigation in Melbourne. Ruby Rose made her sexual assault allegation against Katy Perry via Threads over the weekend. Ruby Rose alleged the sexual assault by Katy Perry occurred in Melbourne nearly 20 years ago.
Ruby Rose is an actor in 'Batgirl' and 'Orange Is the New Black'. Katy Perry denied the allegations, calling them 'reckless lies'.
Story Timeline
6 events- 2026-04-15
Eric Swalwell's resignation from Congress becomes effective.
1 sourceCNBC - 2026-04-14
Lonna Drewes holds press conference alleging assault by Eric Swalwell.
1 sourceLonna Drewes - 2026-04-13
Eric Swalwell suspends California governor campaign.
1 sourceCNBC - 2026-04-12
Ruby Rose alleges sexual assault by Katy Perry via Threads.
1 sourceNew York Post - 2018-07
Alleged rape of Lonna Drewes by Eric Swalwell in West Hollywood hotel.
1 sourceLos Angeles County Sheriff's Department - 2006
Alleged sexual assault by Katy Perry on Ruby Rose in Melbourne.
1 sourceRuby Rose
Potential Impact
- 01
Vacancy in California's congressional delegation requires special election, affecting Democratic representation.
- 02
California governor race shifts with Swalwell's exit, opening field for other candidates.
- 03
Katy Perry's career faces potential scrutiny from Australian probe, affecting public image.
- 04
Increased attention to sexual assault claims in entertainment and politics may prompt policy reviews.
- 05
Ongoing investigations may lead to charges against Eric Swalwell, impacting his political future.
Transparency Panel
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