Arizona congressional candidate reports being raped in Sun City

Bernadette Greene-Placentia reported an overnight sexual assault to police in Sun City, Arizona, authorities confirmed. The Democratic candidate is running for Congress during the ongoing sheriff investigation. The allegation is unproven in court.

No convictions have been announced. Greene-Placentia told the Phoenix New Times that an assailant struck her head. She lost consciousness in a dark parking lot shortly past 2 a.m.

The candidate stated she was repairing damaged campaign signs during overnight hours in Phoenix. She told the newspaper she regained awareness and found a man sexually assaulting her. She reported that a second man assaulted her as well.

Greene-Placentia initially hesitated to contact law enforcement. She said she felt embarrassed. She told the publication she wanted to forget the incident.

The Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that a report was filed on August 31. Officials declined further comment due to the active inquiry. The agency stated it could not release the report.

Greene-Placentia is a longtime trucker who moved to the area with her husband in 2017. She is challenging Republican Rep. Abe Hamadeh for his congressional seat.

Law enforcement agencies gather evidence and interview witnesses during sexual assault inquiries. Investigators assemble case files before forwarding materials to prosecutors. People seeking support can call the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-4673.

The political campaign continues across the Phoenix northwest Valley district.