Surveillance Footage Captures Alleged Assault Attempt on Guttenberg Officer

A West New York resident is facing a disorderly persons offense after allegedly attempting to strike a police officer during a late-night incident outside a local tavern, according to court records obtained by HudPost.

Jose M. Alonso, 43, was charged with aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer following an incident that occurred shortly after midnight on January 27, 2025. The arresting officer stated Alonso appeared intoxicated, attempted to swing at the officer with a backhanded motion, but missed. He was subsequently arrested at the scene.

The encounter began when Alonso was removed from La Caretta Tavern and was later seen entering La Perla Tavern nearby. After being removed from the second location, Alonso was observed making hand gestures toward individuals outside. Officer Sauerwald approached Alonso, who then allegedly attempted to strike him before being placed under arrest.

Although Alonso was initially charged with fourth-degree aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer under N.J.S.A. 2C:12-1B(5)(A), court documents indicate the charge was later downgraded to simple assault, a disorderly persons offense. He has not entered a plea and remains scheduled for a virtual court appearance on May 6, 2025.

The officer’s body-worn camera was not activated until after the arrest was initiated, but the incident was captured by a surveillance camera. The report notes that Alonso appeared under the influence of alcohol and that an ambulance was requested. The officer was treated and released, but no serious injuries were reported.