Ocean City, N.J. — A former congressional aide is facing serious legal consequences after allegedly fabricating a violent incident to gain attention, according to a recent criminal complaint. Natalie Greene, 26, has been charged with conspiracy to communicate false statements and making false claims to federal authorities related to a reported attack that occurred in July.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey announced the charges against Greene, who previously worked for Republican Representative Jeff Van Drew. The allegations come after Greene reportedly commissioned a body modification artist to create injuries on her body to support her claims of a politically charged assault.
On July 23, Greene and an alleged accomplice called the police, claiming they were attacked by three armed men at a state park in Egg Harbor Township. Law enforcement arrived to find Greene in a wooded area, bound with zip ties and exhibiting cut marks on her head and chest. Disturbing messages criticizing President Donald Trump and accusing her former employer of racism were reportedly scrawled on her skin.
Evidence revealed during the investigation contradicted Greene’s narrative. Prosecutors stated that Greene had orchestrated the event, paying a modification artist to purposely inflict the injuries. Photos submitted in the criminal complaint showed the disturbing nature of Greene’s purported attack, raising questions about her motivations.
Investigators uncovered zip ties in Greene’s vehicle that matched those found at the scene, along with incriminating search history from the phone of her accomplice. Furthermore, messages on Greene’s phone suggested premeditation, including correspondence with the Pennsylvania artist responsible for the scarring.
After being discovered, Greene allegedly told an FBI agent that she had been receiving threatening messages related to her job. Her accomplice further informed the 911 dispatcher that Greene was targeted due to her political beliefs, adding layers of complexity to the case.
Greene’s attorney, Louis Barbone, has firmly asserted her innocence, emphasizing that she served her community loyally while managing her responsibilities as a full-time student. He reiterated the importance of her legal rights, stating that she remains presumed innocent until proven otherwise.
Following her arraignment, Greene was released on a $200,000 bond. If convicted, she could face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and significant fines. As the case unfolds, it highlights the troubling intersection of personal motives and public political discourse.