Natalie Greene Charged for Staging Fake Political Attack

A former Republican congressional aide has been charged with fabricating a violent political assault. Natalie Greene, 26, falsely claimed she was attacked by three men because of her work. The incident was reported in Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, in late July.

Federal authorities confirmed Greene conspired to stage the entire event. She had a co-conspirator call 911 to report the fake crime.

Details of the Elaborate Hoax

Police found Greene with her hands and feet bound by zip ties. She had visible lacerations on her face, neck, and upper body. The phrase “TRUMP WHORE” was written on her stomach.

Another phrase targeting a federal official was written on her back. Greene told investigators one attacker held a gun and threatened to shoot her. According to the Justice Department, her story quickly unraveled during the investigation.

Uncovering the Conspiracy

Evidence revealed Greene paid a body modification artist to create the injuries. Cellphone records showed her accomplice searched for “zip ties near me” before the incident. This search occurred just prior to the staged attack.

The Justice Department announced formal charges in November. Greene faces one count of conspiracy and one count of making false statements.

Potential Legal Consequences

The conspiracy charge carries a maximum five-year prison sentence. She could also receive a $250,000 fine. The false statements charge carries identical maximum penalties.

A conviction would include up to three years of supervised release. The case highlights the serious consequences of falsifying reports to law enforcement.

The case against Natalie Greene demonstrates how a fabricated political attack can unravel under scrutiny. Federal investigators quickly uncovered inconsistencies in her story. This incident serves as a cautionary tale about the severe penalties for staging crimes.

Thought you’d like to know

Who is Natalie Greene?

Natalie Greene is a 26-year-old from Ocean City, New Jersey. She worked as a congressional aide for former GOP Representative Jeff Van Drew. She was also a student at Rutgers University.

What exactly was she charged with?

Greene faces charges of conspiracy and making false statements to law enforcement. The charges relate to falsely reporting a violent assault with a firearm. She falsely claimed the attack was due to her political work.

How did investigators discover the attack was fake?

Evidence showed Greene paid a scarification artist to create her wounds. Cellphone records revealed suspicious search history from her accomplice. The timeline and physical evidence did not support her account of the attack.

What were the messages written on her body?

Investigators found “TRUMP WHORE” written on her stomach. Another message targeting a federal official as “RACIST” appeared on her back. These messages were part of the staged political motive.

What are the potential penalties she faces?

Each charge carries up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. She could also face three years of supervised release after any prison term. The court will determine the final sentence if she is convicted.

Trusted Sources

U.S. Department of Justice, Associated Press, Reuters