Ocean City, N.J. — A former staff member for U.S. Rep. Jeff Van Drew has been ordered to undergo inpatient mental health treatment after being charged with fabricating a violent attack. Natalie Greene, 26, who previously held a position as a constituent services representative, is facing serious accusations that include making false statements and conspiracy to convey deceitful claims.
The charges emerged last month following a July incident that drew initial police attention. Authorities discovered Greene at the Egg Harbor Nature Reserve, bound with zip ties and with her shirt pulled over her head. She sustained numerous injuries, including cuts on her face, neck, and shoulders, as well as messages written on her body that targeted political figures.
Greene was arrested on November 14, and within days, she was released on a $200,000 bond under strict conditions, which mandated the use of an electronic monitoring device. Recently, a federal judge in Camden determined that Greene should receive comprehensive mental health care prior to her upcoming trial, allowing for the temporary removal of her monitoring bracelet.
On the night of the alleged attack, Greene’s friend contacted emergency services, reporting an assault by three men while they were walking. As the friend provided details, she claimed to have escaped while Greene was left behind, suffering brutal treatment at the hands of the attackers.
During interviews with investigators, Greene described being physically assaulted and threatened with a weapon. However, the investigation soon raised suspicions regarding the validity of her claims. Evidence suggested a possible fabrication of the attack, particularly after zip ties matching those found on Greene were later located in her vehicle.
The investigation unfolded further when surveillance footage revealed Greene’s friend purchasing zip ties from a local store just days prior to the incident. Authorities noted a search on the friend’s phone for “zip ties near me,” intensifying their concerns about the authenticity of the reported assault.
The inquiry continued when investigators identified a body modification artist, who reportedly confessed to inflicting injuries on Greene in exchange for payment of $500. The artist provided documentation of their communications regarding the procedure, including photographs of the wounds, which corresponded with the date of the alleged attack.
Greene’s friend has been designated as a “co-conspirator” in court documents, though her identity and potential charges remain undisclosed at this time. The case has not only drawn significant media attention due to its bizarre nature but also raises questions about mental health crises and the political climate surrounding contentious issues.
As Greene moves forward with her treatment, her next steps will include returning to Pretrial Services once she completes the mental health program for the reinstallation of her monitoring device. This case continues to develop, leaving many intrigued as to what further revelations may emerge.