Manhattan DA Opens Criminal Investigation Into Rep. Eric Swalwell Over Sexual Assault Allegations

NEW YORK – The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has launched a formal criminal investigation into Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) following sexual assault allegations made by a former congressional staffer who worked in his office from 2019 to 2021.

The investigation was confirmed on April 12, 2026. The accuser alleges that Swalwell sexually assaulted her on multiple occasions, including one incident in which he allegedly pinned her against a wall. The complaint has been assigned to the DA’s public corruption and sex crimes units.

Swalwell vehemently denied the allegations in a video statement posted to X on April 10, 2026, calling them “flat false” and “absolutely false,” and said, “I will fight them.” He also acknowledged past mistakes in judgment

The Manhattan DA’s move follows the woman’s earlier formal complaint to the House Ethics Committee. Swalwell has maintained that the accusations are baseless and has previously stated he looks forward to the Ethics Committee’s review of the matter.

Swalwell, who is currently a candidate for California governor in the 2026 race, has faced mounting pressure from some Democrats to withdraw from the gubernatorial contest in light of the allegations. No immediate additional comment from his campaign was available following the announcement of the criminal probe.

The case is still in its early stages. No charges have been filed against Swalwell, and he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

This remains a developing story as both the Manhattan DA’s criminal investigation and the separate House Ethics Committee review continue.