Man accused of dragging Lawrence officer after traffic stop appears in court virtually, disconnects iPad after being read criminal history

A New Hampshire man accused of seriously injuring a Lawrence police officer during a violent traffic stop appeared virtually in court Thursday, but the hearing took a dramatic turn when he abruptly disconnected from the proceedings after prosecutors began discussing his criminal history.

Authorities say the suspect, identified as 34-year-old Hector Rivera of Plaistow, New Hampshire, faces multiple felony charges stemming from an incident that left a Lawrence police officer hospitalized with severe injuries.

Virtual Court Appearance Ends Abruptly

Rivera appeared remotely from a New Hampshire jail facility where he is currently being held following his arrest.

According to court proceedings, Rivera initially refused to participate in the hearing and remained lying in his jail bed while officials attempted to begin the session.

After several moments, he eventually stood up and appeared before the camera. However, as prosecutors outlined details of his criminal record and pending charges, Rivera became visibly agitated.

Witnesses in court reported that Rivera began yelling before grabbing the iPad being used for the virtual hearing and disconnecting the call, abruptly ending his participation in the proceedings.

The unexpected interruption forced court officials to continue the hearing without further input from Rivera.

Officer Seriously Injured During Traffic Stop

The charges against Rivera stem from a traffic stop in Lawrence that quickly escalated into a dangerous confrontation.

Investigators allege Rivera was stopped by a Lawrence police officer when he suddenly drove away from the scene. Authorities say the officer became caught up with the vehicle and was dragged during the incident, suffering serious injuries.

Emergency responders rushed the injured officer to a hospital, where he remains in serious condition.

The case has generated significant attention across Massachusetts law enforcement communities, with officers expressing concern over the severity of the injuries sustained during what began as a routine traffic stop.

Multiple Serious Charges Filed

Rivera is facing an extensive list of criminal charges connected to the incident.

Prosecutors have charged him with:

• Assault with intent to murder
• Assault and battery on a police officer
• Aggravated assault and battery
• Failure to stop for police
• Reckless operation of a motor vehicle
• Resisting arrest

In addition to those charges, authorities say Rivera was already wanted on two separate warrants related to alleged violations of an abuse prevention order.

The combination of charges could expose Rivera to substantial prison time if convicted.

Prosecutors Detail Criminal History

During Thursday’s hearing, prosecutors reviewed Rivera’s background and criminal record as part of their argument for continued detention.

It was during this portion of the hearing that Rivera reportedly became disruptive.

Court observers said the defendant reacted strongly when details of his prior criminal history were discussed, ultimately leading to his decision to disconnect from the virtual court session.

Despite the interruption, officials continued with the legal process and addressed matters concerning extradition and detention.

Extradition to Massachusetts Expected

Rivera remains in custody in New Hampshire while authorities work through the legal process necessary to return him to Massachusetts.

Court officials indicated that a future hearing will be scheduled to address extradition proceedings and facilitate his transfer back to Massachusetts, where the criminal charges originated.

Once extradited, Rivera is expected to face arraignment and additional court appearances in Massachusetts.

Lawrence Community Following Case Closely

The incident has drawn widespread attention in Lawrence and surrounding communities, particularly because of the serious injuries suffered by the officer.

Law enforcement officials have emphasized the dangers officers face during routine traffic stops and roadside encounters, noting that situations can escalate rapidly and unpredictably.

Support for the injured officer has poured in from fellow officers, local residents, and public officials as he continues his recovery.

Investigation Continues

Authorities have not released additional details regarding the circumstances that led to the traffic stop or the moments immediately preceding the alleged assault.

Investigators continue to gather evidence related to the incident while prosecutors prepare for the next phase of the case.

For now, Rivera remains behind bars in New Hampshire awaiting further court action, while the injured Lawrence police officer continues receiving treatment for injuries sustained during the encounter.

The case remains active, and additional court hearings are expected in the coming weeks.