Eric Swalwell FBI Search: Why Agents Seized His Devices and Searched His Home
Federal agents seized electronic devices from former Rep. Eric Swalwell at a San Francisco airport and searched his Washington, D.C., home days ago as part of an ongoing criminal investigation tied to sexual misconduct allegations, according to people familiar with the probe.
The FBI action marks a major escalation in a case that has already ended Swalwell’s congressional career and his campaign for California governor.
Investigators are now examining potential evidence from his electronic devices and residence, although authorities have not publicly detailed exactly what evidence they are seeking.
What Happened to Eric Swalwell’s Devices?
According to reporting by NBC News, ABC News and CNN, FBI agents approached Swalwell at San Francisco International Airport on Saturday, Aug. 15, and seized electronic devices under a search warrant.
The following day, Sunday, Aug. 16, federal agents searched his Washington, D.C., residence and seized additional potential evidence.
The sequence is significant because investigators appear to have targeted both digital evidence in Swalwell’s possession and material at his home.
However, authorities have not publicly disclosed the contents of the warrants or specified which devices or records are being examined.
The FBI’s seizure of electronic devices does not mean Swalwell has been charged with a crime.
It indicates that investigators obtained judicial authorization to collect material they believe could be relevant to the investigation.
Why Is the FBI Investigating Swalwell?
The federal investigation is connected to multiple allegations of sexual misconduct made against Swalwell.
A former congressional staffer accused him of rape and other nonconsensual sexual conduct stemming from encounters in 2019 and 2024.
Other women have also made allegations involving inappropriate sexual behavior and communications. Swalwell has denied the sexual assault allegations.
The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office previously confirmed an investigation into allegations involving the former staffer.
The FBI’s involvement adds a federal layer to a case that had already drawn scrutiny from local and state authorities.
Swalwell’s lawyer previously said the congressman categorically denied misconduct allegations.
Swalwell himself said during the political fallout in April that he would “fight the serious false allegation made against me,” while acknowledging that he had made mistakes in judgment.
The Timeline
The latest FBI action follows a rapid political and legal collapse for Swalwell.
The FBI Search
The warrants give investigators authority to obtain evidence potentially relevant to the allegations.
Digital devices can contain communications, photographs, location information and other records,but authorities have not said which material they are examining in Swalwell’s case.
The investigation remains ongoing, and the allegations against Swalwell have not been adjudicated in court.
Swalwell has denied the sexual misconduct allegations.
