FBI Raids Beverly Hills Mansion Linked to Eric Swalwell Probe
The search is reportedly connected to the federal investigation into the disgraced former congressman.
Federal agents on Tuesday morning executed a search warrant at a Beverly Hills mansion, a property reportedly owned by billionaire Stephen Cloobeck, as part of the ongoing investigation into former U.S. Representative Eric Swalwell.
Cloobeck, who had previously supported Swalwell's gubernatorial campaign, allegedly evicted the politician from the Southern California residence after allegations of sexual misconduct surfaced.
Swalwell is currently under investigation by multiple prosecutors in New York and California concerning accusations of sexual assault. In August, federal agents surrounded Swalwell at San Francisco International Airport, seizing his cellphone and laptop as part of a federal criminal investigation. The subsequent day, additional warrants were executed at Swalwell's Washington, D.C., home, where further evidence was reportedly collected.
The warrant used for the seizure of Swalwell's electronic devices cited a federal civil-rights statute, suggesting authorities may be examining whether Swalwell used his official position to silence accusers. Allegations against Swalwell include claims of rape, drugging and sexual assault, and distribution of unsolicited images.
Swalwell has denied any wrongdoing. He withdrew from the gubernatorial race and resigned from Congress shortly after the allegations became public.
Cloobeck was a significant financial backer of Swalwell's gubernatorial campaign, contributing over $1 million, including the maximum allowable direct contribution and a $31,000 trip to France in 2024. Swalwell had reportedly used Cloobeck's Beverly Hills mansion as a residence and even filmed a response to misconduct allegations from the property. Cloobeck himself had previously considered a gubernatorial run before stepping aside for Swalwell.
Reports indicate that Cloobeck has also faced legal issues, including felony charges related to allegedly attempting to dissuade a witness in a criminal case involving his ex-partner, who is accused of defrauding wealthy individuals.