A former employee of New Jersey Congressman Jeff Van Drew is facing federal charges for allegedly staging a fake political attack on herself, according to prosecutors.
Natalie Greene, 26, of Ocean City, has been charged with conspiracy to convey false statements and hoaxes, as well as making false statements to federal authorities. Prosecutors say Greene worked with an accomplice to fabricate a politically motivated assault and make it appear that she had been targeted because of her work for Van Drew, a Republican representing New Jersey’s 2nd District.
According to a criminal complaint, investigators allege that Greene hired a “scarification” artist to inflict cuts on her body using a scalpel to mimic a knife attack. The staged incident occurred late on July 23, 2025, when the co-conspirator called 911 claiming that both were attacked by three men in a nature preserve in Egg Harbor Township. The caller allegedly said the attackers knew Greene by name and referenced her ties to Van Drew.
When police arrived, they found Greene bound with zip ties, her shirt pulled over her head, and multiple phrases written on her body, including accusations that her employer “is racist” and the phrase “Trump whore.” However, authorities say the story quickly unraveled during the investigation. Prosecutors say they uncovered evidence that Greene had paid a body modification artist to create the wounds based on a pattern she provided. Zip ties similar to those used at the scene were also found in Greene’s vehicle, and investigators say the accomplice’s phone search history included “zip ties near me” two days before the alleged attack.
Greene’s attorney, Louis Barbone, emphasized that she is presumed innocent and will present her defense in court. He noted that Greene worked full-time assisting constituents while completing her education.
Congressman Van Drew said Thursday that he is praying for Greene and hopes she receives the care she needs. He confirmed he has not spoken to investigators and noted that neither he nor his office would interfere in the process. A spokesperson for Van Drew also confirmed he was the official referred to as “Federal Official 1” in court documents, adding that Greene is no longer employed in his government office.
Greene began working for Van Drew as an intern before becoming a constituent advocate in 2023 and eventually rising to constituent advocate director, according to LegiStorm records.
She made her first appearance in federal court on Wednesday and was released on a $200,000 bond with conditions.
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