The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted a raid on a Beverly Hills mansion Tuesday morning as part of an ongoing investigation involving former Congressman Eric Swalwell. Sources familiar with the matter revealed the details to The Times.
Swalwell, a Democrat representing Dublin, withdrew from the California gubernatorial race and resigned from his congressional seat in April. This decision followed allegations of sexual assault against a former staffer and accusations of inappropriate conduct with other young women, claims he has previously denied. At the time of his withdrawal, polling indicated Swalwell was a leading contender in the governor's race.
On Tuesday, FBI agents were observed at the Beverly Hills property executing a search warrant related to the probe. This action follows previous investigative steps taken in August, when agents reportedly seized Swalwell's electronic devices and searched his Washington residence. A person familiar with the inquiry also indicated that the former lawmaker was briefly detained at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) during that period.
The source further stated that Swalwell was detained at SFO for search purposes in August and subsequently released on the same day. Federal prosecutors are reportedly utilizing civil rights statutes in their inquiry into his conduct during his tenure as a member of Congress. Separate investigations are also being conducted by authorities in New York and Los Angeles County.
Court records indicate that investigators sought to obtain Swalwell's white iPhone and MacBook Pro. These devices were targeted as part of the inquiry into whether Swalwell violated federal law, specifically statutes criminalizing individuals acting under official government authority who willfully deprive a person of their constitutional rights. The allegations have significantly impacted the California gubernatorial race and raised concerns on Capitol Hill regarding workplace conduct and accountability.
Swalwell has consistently denied any wrongdoing. However, the accusations have been substantial enough to disrupt the political landscape and prompt discussions about a culture of secrecy surrounding allegations of sexual impropriety within political circles.
