Massachusetts State Trooper Arrested for DUI, Relieved of Duty

High Noon vodka found in car during incident

Mar. 27, 2026 at 10:53am

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A Massachusetts State Police trooper has been relieved of duty following an arrest for alleged drunken driving in Boston this past weekend. Trooper Donovan Preston, 31, was found by Boston Police allegedly 'slumped over' in his car with an open container of High Noon vodka in the cupholder.

Why it matters

Incidents involving law enforcement and allegations of impaired driving carry significant weight, not only for the individuals involved but also for public trust in the institutions they represent. A thorough and transparent disciplinary process will be crucial in this case.

The details

According to a Boston Police report, officers responded to Herald Street on Saturday to uncover Preston's vehicle stopped in a lane with brake lights activated. The report states Preston was found with his eyes closed. Officers reportedly knocked on the window for approximately ten seconds before he lifted his head. Upon waking, Preston appeared 'confused' and his vehicle began to roll, prompting officers to announce themselves and request he open the door. The vehicle came to a stop in the middle of two lanes on the outbound road.

  • On Saturday around 5 a.m., Boston Police responded to the incident on Herald Street.

The players

Trooper Donovan Preston

A 31-year-old Massachusetts State Police trooper who was arrested for alleged drunken driving in Boston.

Sgt. Scott Quigley

A Massachusetts State Police sergeant who is under investigation in connection with a 2023 fatal crash in Woburn involving an alleged drunken driver.

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What they’re saying

“Incidents involving law enforcement and allegations of impaired driving carry significant weight, not only for the individuals involved but also for public trust in the institutions they represent. A thorough and transparent disciplinary process will be crucial in this case.”

— Samantha Carter, Editor-in-Chief, Newsy-Today.com

What’s next

Trooper Preston will be subject to a department discipline process, but the specifics of that process are not detailed in available reports. Further investigation will occur, and a range of disciplinary actions could be taken. The outcome of the investigation could also influence any potential criminal proceedings.

The takeaway

As investigations continue into alleged misconduct within the Massachusetts State Police, these cases highlight the importance of maintaining public trust in law enforcement through a fair and transparent disciplinary process, especially when it comes to issues of impaired driving.