In Ocean City, New Jersey, a family is grappling with disbelief and shame after their 26-year-old daughter was charged with allegedly faking her own abduction.
Natalie Greene, a former aide to Republican Congressman Jeff Van Drew, is now free on bond but faces serious legal trouble that has left her parents, Timothy and Becky Greene, visibly shaken and unwilling to speak.
Parents Step Outside, Speechless
Early Friday morning, Timothy Greene stepped barefoot onto the boardwalk outside the family’s $700,000 oceanfront home, his dog at his side, declining to answer questions about whether he still supports his daughter.
Becky Greene hurried inside her home, shielding her face from reporters.
Natalie Greene herself was nowhere to be seen, and her Maserati sports car — which had drawn attention in the neighborhood — was also absent.
The Alleged Hoax That Shook a Community
Prosecutors say Greene concocted an elaborate story in July, claiming she had been ambushed in the woods near her home.
She alleged that attackers tied her up and carved hateful words into her torso.
Investigators later discovered evidence suggesting Greene paid a body modification artist $500 to create the injuries herself to make the story believable.
Neighbors described the family as respected and Greene as a “good girl” growing up.
Many said they were shocked by the accusations, struggling to reconcile the young woman they knew with the detailed allegations now facing her.
The FBI Investigation Uncovers a Detailed Scheme
Greene allegedly claimed she had been attacked by two men after receiving threats at her congressional office.
She told FBI agents that she was tied with black zip ties, beaten, and cut.
Authorities say surveillance footage and cellphone data tell a different story: days before the supposed attack, her alleged accomplice purchased zip ties, and Greene visited a Pennsylvania studio to have the markings made on her body.
Investigators also discovered that she followed online “bodymods” and scarification pages prior to the incident.
A Journey Through the Alleged Hoax
According to federal authorities, Greene then traveled with her friend, stopping at Dunkin’ Donuts before arriving at Egg Harbor Township Nature Reserve.
Her co-conspirator called 911 claiming they were attacked at gunpoint by three men referencing Greene’s boss.
Greene repeated the claims to police on the scene, but the FBI’s investigation, including phone and surveillance records, raised doubts about the story.
Charges and Legal Consequences
Natalie Greene was formally indicted on November 14 for conspiracy to convey false statements and hoaxes, as well as making false statements to federal law enforcement.
If convicted, she could face up to ten years in prison, $500,000 in fines, and up to six years of supervised release.
She appeared in federal court on Wednesday and was released on a $200,000 unsecured bond.
Questions About Employment and Lifestyle
Greene had been working as a constituent advocate director for Congressman Van Drew while attending Rutgers Law School.
Her ability to afford a Maserati on the modest congressional aide salary has puzzled locals.
Van Drew’s office confirmed she is no longer employed there, stating, “Our thoughts and prayers are with her and hope she’s getting the care she needs.”
Family, Community, and the Road Ahead
As the legal case unfolds, Greene’s parents remain silent, and neighbors continue to grapple with the startling allegations.
Greene’s attorney emphasized her client’s presumption of innocence, highlighting her years of service and hard work.
The community now watches closely, waiting to see how a young woman once described as ambitious and devoted could find herself at the center of such a bizarre and high-stakes federal investigation.
What Happens Next
The next steps in Greene’s case will unfold in court, where she will have the opportunity to present her defense.
Investigators have yet to clarify whether her alleged accomplice faces charges.
As the trial approaches, the story leaves a lasting mark on her family, the congressional office where she worked, and the Ocean City community that had watched her grow up.
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