Federal agents searched Eric Swalwell's home as part of a federal sexual assault inquiry. The investigation appears to use civil rights statutes to examine his conduct, according to a source familiar with the case.

Most sex crimes fall under state and local jurisdiction, making this federal probe unusual. The civil rights angle suggests investigators may be pursuing charges related to abuse of power or coercion.

The search marks a significant escalation in scrutiny of the California congressman. Swalwell has previously faced controversy over his relationships with women, though this federal investigation represents new legal peril.

Authorities have not commented publicly on the specifics of what they sought or found during the search of his residence.