Congressional Staffer Accused of Fabricating Violent Political Attack
A New Jersey woman who claimed she was violently assaulted for her political associations now faces federal charges for allegedly staging the entire incident. Natalie Greene, 26, from Ocean City, New Jersey, was charged with conspiracy to convey false statements and hoaxes, along with making false statements to federal law enforcement.
The Elaborate Hoax Unravels
According to officials, Greene reported being slashed, bound, and labeled with anti-Trump messages on her body during an alleged assault on July 23. When officers arrived, they found her crying and tied up with numerous cuts. The words "TRUMP WHORE" were written on her stomach, while "IS RACIST" appeared on her back, referencing her employer, Representative Jeff Van Drew.
Greene told investigators that attackers had threatened her at gunpoint, held her down, and cut her multiple times. She claimed the assailants specifically mentioned her association with the Republican lawmaker during the alleged attack.
Investigation Reveals Contradictory Evidence
Federal investigators soon uncovered evidence suggesting Greene had orchestrated the entire incident. They discovered she had paid a body "scarification" artist to deliberately cut her face and body in a pre-arranged pattern. Additionally, investigators found zip ties in Greene's car that matched those used in the supposed attack.
Cellphone records revealed that an unnamed co-conspirator had searched for "zip ties near me" before the incident. These findings directly contradicted Greene's account of being victimized by unknown attackers.
If convicted, Greene faces up to five years in prison for the federal charges. She is currently out on bond while awaiting further legal proceedings.
Representative Van Drew's office released a statement expressing sadness about the situation, noting that while Greene is no longer associated with the congressman's government office, their "thoughts and prayers are with her" and they hope she's "getting the care she needs."
