Vineland, New Jersey — A Republican congressional staff member has been charged with conspiracy and making false statements to law enforcement after allegedly fabricating a violent assault claim. Natalie Greene, a 26-year-old former aide to Representative Jeff Van Drew, reported an incident in July in which she stated she was attacked at gunpoint by three men who allegedly bound her and wrote derogatory slogans on her body.
According to Greene’s report to police and the FBI, she claimed she and a friend were hiking late at night when they were accosted by the men. She described one of the assailants as brandishing a firearm. Her friend, who has not been named, called 911 during the incident, expressing concerns for Greene’s safety and narrating the attackers’ political taunts.
Emergency responders arrived to find Greene in distress, with her clothing disheveled and several cuts on her body, including phrases such as “Trump Whore” and “Van Drew is Racist” written on her skin. She alleged that the attackers addressed her by name and threatened her life if she screamed.
However, authorities soon discovered inconsistencies in Greene’s account. Investigations revealed that she had visited a scarification artist shortly before the supposed assault to inflict the injuries herself. Prosecutors indicated that Greene had even provided a specific design for the markings on her body, further complicating her narrative.
Additional evidence raised suspicions about the authenticity of her claims. Law enforcement officers found black zip ties in her vehicle, similar to those described as being used to restrain her. It was also revealed that her co-conspirator had conducted internet searches for zip ties just days before the alleged attack.
Greene appeared in federal court last week facing serious charges. If convicted, she could face up to five years in prison and fines totaling $250,000 for conspiracy and making false statements. Following her initial court appearance, she was released on a $200,000 bond.
In the wake of these developments, a spokesperson for Van Drew’s office expressed concern, stating they were saddened by the news and hoped Greene would receive the care she needs. Her position with the congressman’s office has since ended.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in New Jersey, led by Acting U.S. Attorney Alina Habba, has taken a strong stance on the case, asserting the seriousness of falsely reporting such incidents. Habba, who was appointed amid political maneuvering, announced the charges, emphasizing the potential consequences of such deceptive claims.
Authorities continue to highlight the importance of integrity in reporting crimes, particularly as societal tensions around political issues persist. This case has raised questions not only about Greene’s motivations but also about the broader implications of fabricating violent incidents.