Gov. Kristi Noem has tabbed the next leader of the South Dakota Highway Patrol.
Capt. Casey Collins takes over the role of highway patrol superintendent effective Jan. 22, according to a press release from the Department of Public Safety.
Collins has 15 years of experience with the department, including serving as a district commander in Rapid City.
He replaces Col. Rick Miller, who retired in November.
“Capt. Collins brings a wealth of experience and is well-positioned to lead the SDHP into its next chapter,” Department of Public Safety Secretary Robert Perry said. “I have full confidence in Capt. Collins' ability to build upon the legacy left by Col. Miller and to continue prioritizing the safety and well-being of the citizens of South Dakota.”
“I am extremely grateful to be selected as the next Superintendent of the South Dakota Highway Patrol. I would like to thank Gov. Noem and Sec. Perry for this opportunity,” Collins said. “The dedicated employees of the SDHP do incredible work every day to keep our citizens and visitors safe. I am honored to serve with them and committed to providing the resources needed to positively impact public safety for South Dakota.”
Collins will become the 15th superintendent of the state highway patrol, which was established in 1937.