NEWARK — A city police officer was indicted today on charges he pulled a gun on a couple and their young son as part of a road rage incident in March, authorities said.

David Hudson, 43, a 21-year veteran of the Newark force, is charged with official misconduct, aggravated assault by pointing a firearm, unlawful possession of a weapon and possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose, Acting Essex County Prosecutor Carolyn A. Murray said in a statement.

The charges stem from an incident on March 8, when Hudson got into a traffic dispute with the husband and wife while driving through Newark, Murray said. He then allegedly pursued the couple, who were accompanied by their 11-year-old son, for several blocks and onto Interstate 280.

The chase ended in the area of Broad Street and 3rd Avenue, when Hudson got out of his mint green Cadillac and pointed a handgun at the boy’s father, according to the indictment.

Prosecutors claim Hudson was not legally allowed to be carrying the gun at the time.

His current status at the police department is unclear. Department officials were not immediately available for comment.

James Stewart Jr., president of Newark's police union, said Hudson "took a police action with an aggressive driver while off duty" and planned to dispute the charges at trial.

"I appreciate the thoroughness of the ECPO in ensuring that all media outlets in the region have been made aware of this indictment before Officer Hudson has had a chance to present his side of the case," he said.

Hudson is scheduled to make an initial appearance in Essex County Superior Court on Aug. 8, according to Murray.