A state grand jury has decided not to file criminal charges against Guttenberg Police Officer Brandon Sauerwald following a fatal encounter on Nov. 12, 2024, in Guttenberg, New Jersey. The decision was announced after the conclusion of deliberations on March 23, according to the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability.
The case involved the death of Brandon Lee Ortega, a 26-year-old from Mexia, Texas. His death was investigated under procedures set by the Independent Directive of 2019, which requires the Office of the Attorney General to review deaths that occur during encounters with law enforcement. This process is designed to ensure transparency and accountability in such investigations.
The investigation included interviews with witnesses, examination of emergency calls and radio transmissions, review of photographs and video footage from body-worn cameras and surveillance systems, as well as autopsy results. All evidence was presented to New Jersey residents serving on the grand jury. After reviewing testimony and materials related to the incident—where Ortega reportedly brandished a blue firearm before fleeing police and falling approximately 68 feet—the grand jury voted “no bill,” meaning no criminal charges would be filed against Officer Sauerwald.
According to investigators’ findings outlined in official statements released by authorities, officers responded after a disturbance call involving several individuals attempting entry into a property at night. Following an argument at the scene and reports that Ortega had displayed a firearm, police located him nearby where he attempted but failed to carjack another individual before fleeing over a railing resulting in his fatal fall.
In line with policies established by the Attorney General’s Office in 2019 for transparency in investigating fatal police encounters, video footage from body-worn cameras and other recordings are being released publicly after representatives for Ortega’s family were given an opportunity for prior review.
The New Jersey Attorney General Matthew Platkin aims to protect residents’ lives and property while upholding legal standards across all counties through enforcement efforts according to its official website. The office also provides statewide legal representation, law enforcement oversight—including investigations like this one—crime lab support services, victim advocacy programs, consumer protection initiatives,and regulates public safety matters throughout New Jersey.
