The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has launched an investigation into a new sexual assault allegation against former Congressman Eric Swalwell. This development was confirmed in an official statement released on Tuesday.

The case revolves around a report filed by 50-year-old Lonna Drewes, who alleges that Swalwell sexually assaulted her in July 2018 at a business on the 900 block of Hammond Street in West Hollywood.

Investigators have emphasized that the inquiry is in its initial stages. They are currently engaged in gathering evidence, conducting interviews, and pursuing other necessary follow-up actions.

Upon conclusion of these preliminary steps, the case will be submitted to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office for review and a decision on potential charges.

The Sheriff’s Department has assigned its Special Victims Bureau to the case, a unit dedicated to addressing serious sexual assault allegations involving adults, as well as cases of child abuse.

While the statement refrained from providing specific findings or outcomes at this stage, it confirmed that a formal investigation is actively underway.

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.