Federal law‑enforcement officials conducted a two‑day operation targeting former U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell, a Democrat who left Congress in April 2026 after multiple sexual‑misconduct allegations surfaced. On Saturday, agents seized a range of electronic devices from Swalwell at San Francisco International Airport. The following day, a team from the FBI executed a search warrant at his home in Washington, D.C., taking additional equipment for forensic analysis.
Background of the investigation
Swalwell’s resignation came after CNN and the San Francisco Chronicle published detailed reports describing accusations of sexual misconduct made by two women. Those reports prompted the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department to open separate criminal investigations. While those local probes focus on potential state‑level violations, the recent FBI action is part of a broader federal investigation tied to the same allegations.
Details of the raids
According to sources familiar with the investigation, the airport seizure involved smartphones, laptops, and other digital storage devices that could contain communications or other evidence relevant to the case. The subsequent raid of Swalwell’s Washington residence was carried out under a federal search warrant, allowing agents to collect additional hardware and documents.
Swalwell and his attorney have not responded to requests for comment from CNN. The two women who previously spoke publicly about the accusations also told CNN they have been in contact with the FBI, indicating cooperation with the ongoing probe.
Legal context
The involvement of multiple law‑enforcement agencies underscores the seriousness with which federal authorities are treating the allegations. While the Manhattan DA and Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department are pursuing potential state crimes, the FBI’s participation suggests possible violations of federal statutes, such as those related to sexual assault, obstruction of justice, or misuse of government resources.
Potential implications
If the investigation yields sufficient evidence, federal prosecutors could file charges that carry significant penalties, including imprisonment and fines. The case also raises broader questions about accountability for public officials and the mechanisms in place to investigate alleged misconduct at both state and federal levels.
Swalwell’s former colleagues in Congress have largely remained silent, awaiting the outcome of the investigations. The situation highlights the intersection of political careers, personal conduct, and the rule of law.
What comes next
Federal investigators will continue to analyze the seized devices for communications, files, and metadata that may corroborate or refute the allegations. The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department are expected to release updates as their investigations progress. Until formal charges are filed, Swalwell remains a private citizen, though the public scrutiny surrounding the case is likely to persist.
Original reporting: El Paso News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
