A former aide to a prominent U.S. politician has found herself embroiled in a legal scandal, accused of orchestrating a violent assault on herself. Prosecutors claim she paid $500 USD, equivalent to $775 AUD, to have someone inflict numerous cuts on her body.

Natalie Greene, who once served under Republican Congressman Jeff Van Drew, now faces serious charges including conspiracy and providing false statements to law enforcement officials.

The allegations, put forth by the U.S. Justice Department, detail an elaborate scheme. On the evening of July 23, a woman, unnamed in the criminal complaint but identified as Greene’s co-conspirator, dialed 911. She reported that both she and Greene had been attacked by three men in New Jersey.

Intriguingly, just two days prior to this incident, a search for “zip ties near me” was conducted using the co-conspirator’s phone, as highlighted by the Justice Department.

In response to these developments, Congressman Van Drew’s office expressed their dismay, stating, “We are deeply saddened by today’s news, and while Natalie is no longer associated with the Congressman’s government office, our thoughts and prayers are with her. We hope she’s getting the care she needs.”

If convicted on both charges, Greene could face a prison sentence of up to 10 years. Following her initial court appearance on Wednesday, she was released on a $200,000 USD bond.