SAN JOSE – A man was arrested on suspicion of attacking a plainclothes police officer assigned to protect San Jose Mayor Mahan early Tuesday evening, police said.
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The incident happened just after 6 p.m., according to a statement issued by the San Jose Police Department. The mayor was being interviewed a journalist when a man “began displaying erratic behavior toward him and surrounding staff,” police said.
A plainclothes police officer assigned to Mahan’s security detail intervened and attempted to de-escalate the situation, police said. The suspect, however, “grew more agitated, threatening the officer while advancing toward him.”
Despite repeated de-escalation attempts, the suspect continued to advance on the officer and eventually hit him, according to police. Footage of the incident posted to social media showed the suspect punching the officer in the head.
The officer tried to take the suspect into custody, and following a minutes-long struggle, he was eventually detained with the help of several bystanders, police said.
The suspect was booked into Santa Clara County jail on charges including felony battery on a police officer.
The officer, meanwhile, was evaluated at an area hospital for minor injuries.
Police said the motive and circumstances surrounding the incident are under investigation.
In a statement late Monday night, Mahan’s chief communications officer, Tasha Dean, said the mayor was grateful for his security team and the police department.
“The actions of the officer tonight were heroic and a testament to the de-escalation training that makes our officers effective, compassionate and stewards of community trust,” Dean said.
“His thoughts are with the officer and he hopes for a speedy recovery,” Dean continued. “The mayor understands how privileged he is to have an armed officer protecting him at all times and is resolved in his commitment to create a safer city for everyone.”
While interviewing Mayor Matt Mahan in downtown San Jose, a man was shouting at us and fought Mayor Mahan’s security guard.
The fight lasted a couple minutes and the man was arrested by SJPD.
Police said they were compiling evidence and sending it to the DA’s office/ pic.twitter.com/aJxGRLC7RU
— Jack Molmud (@jmolmud) April 24, 2024
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.