Trooper arrested for OUI was ‘slumped’ at the wheel

A Massachusetts State Police trooper was arrested on a drunken driving charge Sunday after he was found “slumped” behind the wheel with an open container of High Noon in his cup holder.

Donovan Preston, 31, was arrested and charged with operating under the influence after Boston police found him sitting in a black BMW in the middle of Herald Street in the South End shortly after 5 a.m., according to a police report.

According to the report, Preston’s eyes were closed, and the car was going and driving. An officer knocked on the window to wake Preston, who appeared disoriented, police said. He allegedly struggled to stop the vehicle as instructed, and the officer helped him change gear through the window.

According to the police report, Preston stumbled while getting out of the car and had “slurred speech, glazed eyes, and an odor of alcohol coming from the car.” [his] “He’s breathing.” The officer offered to call EMS for Preston, but he reportedly refused.

Preston allegedly denied having anything to drink and maintained he did not pass out. The police report said the officer was “uncooperative with officers and did not want to answer most questions.” “The officer attempted to administer a field sobriety test several times, which… [Preston] He didn’t reply.”

When the officer finally administered a field sobriety test, Preston allegedly struggled.

According to the report, Boston Police arrested the officer, confiscated his driver’s license, and towed his car. A half-full can of High Noon, a vodka-based hard soft drink, was recorded in evidence.

Preston pleaded not guilty Monday to charges of operating under the influence and open container violation. He was released on personal recognizance. Defense lawyer Ben Makrian declined to comment.

State Police did not immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday. However, agency spokesman Timothy McGuirk said Boston Globe Preston has been suspended and will face domestic discipline as the criminal case continues.

Preston is scheduled to return to court on May 13.