A New Hampshire man is in custody after allegedly dragging a Massachusetts State Police trooper approximately 20 feet with his vehicle in East Boston early Thursday morning. Binit Bikram Shah, 27, of Raymond, New Hampshire, was apprehended in New Hampshire following a swift response triggered by a “be on the lookout” alert issued by Massachusetts authorities. The incident has prompted multiple charges against Shah, and raised concerns about public safety, leading a New Hampshire judge to order him held without bail.
The Massachusetts State Police responded to the scene near the intersection of Central Square and East Boston just before 2:30 a.m. On Thursday, February 19, 2026, after observing a 2021 BMW 5 Series operating with a suspended license, according to a statement from the MSP. When the trooper instructed Shah to exit the vehicle in preparation for it to be towed, police say Shah instead put the car in gear and accelerated, dragging the trooper a distance of 10 to 20 feet. This dangerous encounter quickly escalated into a multi-state pursuit.
Following the incident, the trooper was able to radio for assistance, providing details about Shah and the vehicle. This information allowed Massachusetts authorities to issue a BOLO alert, which ultimately led to Shah’s identification and arrest by New Hampshire State Police in Seabrook, New Hampshire. The quick coordination between the two state police forces was praised by the Boston Police Patrolmen’s Association, who called it a “Great arrest.”
Charges Filed in Massachusetts and New Hampshire
Shah is facing a series of charges in both states. In New Hampshire, he is charged with a felony count of possession of controlled drugs, as well as misdemeanor charges including driving under the influence of drugs or liquor, driving after revocation or suspension (subsequent offense), operating without a valid license, and possession of drugs in a motor vehicle. He also faces a charge of contempt of court for allegedly breaching prior bail conditions, according to WMUR. Massachusetts authorities have indicated that additional charges related to the trooper-dragging incident in East Boston will also be filed.
During the arrest in New Hampshire, authorities also observed signs of impairment and discovered a crystal-like substance inside Shah’s vehicle. These findings contributed to the charges related to drug possession and driving under the influence.
Judge Orders Shah Held Without Bail
During a Thursday court appearance in Hampton District Court, a New Hampshire judge ordered Shah to be held in custody. Trooper Dan Peete, representing the state police, argued that Shah posed a significant danger to the public, citing his history of pursuits and the severity of the recent incident. “Given the multiple pursuits, the danger of the incidents that occurred last night, there is clear and convincing evidence that he is a danger to the public,” Peete stated, as reported by WMUR.
The defense attorney requested Shah be released on $3,000 cash bail, emphasizing his strong ties to the state and offering the possibility of inpatient treatment. Though, the judge ultimately sided with the prosecution, citing concerns about Shah’s potential flight risk and the risk he posed to public safety.
Trooper’s Condition and Ongoing Investigation
Whereas details regarding the trooper’s injuries have not been extensively released, authorities have indicated that the trooper is expected to recover. The incident underscores the inherent dangers faced by law enforcement officers during routine traffic stops. The Massachusetts State Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses.
The case involving Binit Bikram Shah highlights the importance of inter-state cooperation in law enforcement and the potential consequences of driving with a suspended license and engaging in reckless behavior. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks faced by police officers and the importance of upholding the law.
Shah is scheduled to appear in Hampton District Court at a later date to address the charges filed in New Hampshire. Massachusetts authorities are expected to announce the specific charges related to the trooper-dragging incident in the coming days. Further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses and court proceedings unfold.
If you or someone you know is struggling with substance abuse, resources are available. You can contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357) or visit their website at https://www.samhsa.gov/.
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