Egg Harbor Township, N.J. — A former congressional staffer has been charged with conspiracy and making false statements after allegedly fabricating her own violent assault. Natalie Greene, who previously worked for Republican Congressman Jeff Van Drew, is accused of orchestrating an elaborate scheme that involved paying an individual to inflict cuts on her body.
According to the Justice Department, the incident occurred on July 23. Greene’s unnamed accomplice reportedly called 911, claiming that they had been attacked by three men who had threatened them. The caller alleged that the attackers specifically referenced Greene’s connection to Van Drew’s office, although the complaint refers to the congressman as “Federal Official 1.”
When law enforcement arrived at the scene in a wooded area, they found Greene bound with zip ties and exhibiting distress. Court documents reveal she had numerous cuts on her body, including both her face and chest. Additionally, two messages were inscribed on her skin: one that targeted former President Donald Trump and another that accused Van Drew of racism.
Greene claimed that the alleged assailants threatened her with a gun and restrained her while they inflicted the injuries. However, subsequent investigations revealed her involvement in staging the attack. The Justice Department reported that Greene had hired a body modification artist to create the cuts prior to the incident. FBI agents discovered a receipt indicating that Greene had paid $500 for these services.
Further investigation uncovered additional evidence linking Greene to the deception. Authorities found similar zip ties in her vehicle, and the phone of her accomplice had attempted to locate “zip ties near me” just two days prior to the incident.
In a statement, Van Drew’s office expressed sorrow over the allegations, emphasizing that while Greene is no longer affiliated with the congressman, they wish her well and hope she receives any necessary care. Greene faces a potential sentence of up to 10 years in prison if convicted on both charges. She appeared in court this week and was released on a $200,000 bond while awaiting further legal proceedings.