Republican Staffer Staged Own Attack, Misled Police
A Republican congressional staffer has been charged with conspiracy and making false statements to law enforcement after alleging she was assaulted at gunpoint. Natalie Greene, 26, a former aide to Rep. Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ), claimed that three unidentified men attacked her during a late-night hike in New Jersey, binding her hands and feet with zip ties and writing “Trump Whore” on her body.
Greene reported to police and the FBI that one of the assailants was armed. Her companion, an unnamed co-conspirator, called 911, stating, “They were attacking her” and mentioned that the attackers were making political remarks and calling her derogatory names.
Upon police arrival, Greene was found on the ground with her shirt pulled over her head, suffering from cuts and lacerations. The words “Trump Whore” were written on her stomach, and “Van Drew is Racist” was inscribed on her back. Greene alleged that the attackers addressed her by name and threatened her life if she made any noise.
However, investigators later determined that the incident was a hoax. Authorities discovered that Greene had visited a body modification artist to inflict the injuries on herself, following a pattern she had provided. Additionally, law enforcement recovered black zip ties in Greene’s vehicle, similar to those used in her alleged attack.
Evidence revealed that two days prior to the incident, Greene’s co-conspirator had searched for “zip ties near me” on her cell phone. Greene made her initial appearance in federal court last week, facing a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for conspiracy and making false statements. She was released on a $200,000 bond.
In response to the incident, Paxton Antonucci, a spokesperson for Van Drew’s office, expressed sadness over the news, stating that Greene is no longer associated with the Congressman’s office and that they hope she receives the care she needs.
The charges were announced by Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba, who was appointed by former President Donald Trump. Habba has faced scrutiny regarding her continued role in the U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Jersey, as she has remained in the position beyond the typical 120-day limit for acting officials.
For further details, refer to the U.S. Department of Justice.
This case raises significant ethical concerns regarding the use of power and the dissemination of misinformation. The implications of such actions by a congressional staffer highlight the potential for abuse within political offices and the importance of accountability in public service. For more insights on independent journalism and political commentary, visit Brandon Bent’s website.
