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Ex–Van Drew Aide Charged With Staging Political Attack on Herself, Released on $200,000 Bond

Prosecutors point to studio records plus digital traces to argue the July report was staged.

Overview

  • Natalie Greene, 26, faces one count of conspiracy to convey false statements and hoaxes and one count of making false statements to federal law enforcement.
  • Investigators say she paid a Pennsylvania scarification artist $500 hours before the reported assault, with a receipt, consent form, and photos matching her hospital wounds.
  • Officers found black zip ties in her vehicle similar to those used on her, and a co‑conspirator’s phone showed a prior search for “zip ties near me,” with Dollar General surveillance reviewed.
  • A female co‑conspirator’s 911 call reported three men attacked them and referenced Greene’s work for a federal official; police found Greene bound with zip ties and political messages written on her body.
  • Greene made an initial federal court appearance and was released on a $200,000 unsecured bond; each charge carries a maximum of five years in prison, fines, and supervised release.