Jay Clayton, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York | Department of Justice
The United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jay Clayton, along with Tricia McLaughlin, Assistant Secretary of Public Affairs for the Department of Homeland Security, announced charges against Joel Antonio Alonzo. Alonzo is accused of assaulting a federal protective security officer and attempting to seize the officer's firearm at 26 Federal Plaza in New York City on June 6, 2025. This location is known for hosting Immigration Court proceedings.
Jay Clayton emphasized the importance of safety at federal facilities: “The safety of federal facilities and the dedicated personnel who serve there is non-negotiable.” He added that Alonzo’s alleged actions endangered both law enforcement personnel and civilians nearby. Clayton stated, “We will prosecute to the full extent of the law anyone who threatens the safety of our communities and the federal officers sworn to protect them.”
Tricia McLaughlin highlighted a troubling trend: “Joel Antonio Alonzo, an illegal alien, assaulted one of our DHS law enforcement officers and lunged for his loaded gun.” She noted an increase in assaults against ICE personnel and reiterated Secretary Noem's stance on prosecuting threats against federal officers.
According to allegations in the Complaint, on June 6, 2025, Alonzo arrived near Immigration Court at 26 Federal Plaza where he displayed disruptive behavior by forcing his way ahead in line and aggressively tossing papers at service window staff. While officers attempted to assist him, Alonzo allegedly lunged at one officer and tried to seize his loaded firearm from its holster. The quick response from security officers prevented him from succeeding.
Alonzo, a 19-year-old Honduran national, faces charges including assaulting a U.S. officer using a deadly or dangerous weapon. This charge carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. However, any sentencing will be determined by a judge as these are currently only accusations.
The case is being managed by the Office’s General Crimes Unit with Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Zabel leading the prosecution efforts.
It is important to note that all charges are allegations at this stage; Joel Antonio Alonzo remains presumed innocent until proven guilty.
