A forensic report reviewed by Newsweek has added a new dimension to the controversy surrounding Eric Swalwell, concluding that footage appearing to show the former California Democratic lawmaker in a hotel room with a woman is authentic.
The report, prepared by digital forensics expert Hany Farid, found no signs of manipulation in the videos and confirmed that the adult male in the videos is Representative Eric Swalwell.
The videos, which have spread widely on social media, show a man kissing an unidentified woman in what appears to be a hotel room and the two lying together on a bed. Another person is partially visible in one of the videos, as per Newsweek.
The emergence of the videos comes alongside serious allegations against Swalwell, including reports of sexual assault and misconduct. Swalwell has denied all allegations, with his legal representative calling them 'a calculated and transparent political hit job.'
A statement from Swalwell's Congressional and campaign senior staff also circulated online, strongly criticizing the reports and condemning the behavior detailed in them.
The situation continues to develop as investigations proceed and more details emerge regarding both the allegations and the viral footage.
