A New Jersey man who, insistent on keeping his dog in a Manhattan pizzeria, beat a restaurant manager nearly to death last year, pleaded guilty to assault charges on Wednesday, the district attorney’s office said.

Tyshaun Watson, who was first indicted on Sept. 9, 2024, made his plea in NYS Supreme Court to two counts of assault in the first degree on Dec. 3.

According to police sources, 36-year-old Watson walked into Roma Pizza located at 146 5th Ave. in the Flatiron District along with his dog at around 9:55 p.m. on Aug. 19. After placing his order, the defendant sat in the dining area but became annoyed after the manager repeatedly told him that his dog was not permitted in the restaurant.

Sources close to the investigation reported that the dog was off the leash.

From heated words

See Full Page