Oklahoma Highway Patrol
The Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) is a major state law enforcement agency of the government of Oklahoma. A division of the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety, the OHP acts as Oklahoma's state police agency. OHP was legislatively created in 1937 due to the growing problem of motor vehicle accidents, the expansion of a highway system, and the increase in criminal activities.
As the principal statewide law enforcement agency in Oklahoma, the State Patrol is dedicated to providing quality policing directed at achieving safer roadways and reducing crime through pro-active investigations, education and patrol services and by providing leadership and resources during natural disasters, civil disorders and critical incidents. OHP has patrol jurisdiction over all State highways and waterways in Oklahoma, regulating motor vehicles, regulating explosive devices, and providing protection for the Governor of Oklahoma and members of the Oklahoma Legislature.
The Highway Patrol is under the command of Colonel Kerry Pettingill, who is the current Chief of the Highway Patrol. Pettingill was appointed by DPS Commissioner Michael C. Thompson to succeed Van M. Guillotte as Chief. Prior to his appointment, Pettingill served as the Director of the Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security and held the rank of Lieutenant Colonel with the Patrol.
Read more about Oklahoma Highway Patrol: History, Responsibilities, Organization, Communications
Famous quotes containing the words oklahoma and/or highway:
“I know only one person who ever crossed the ocean without feeling it, either spiritually or physically.... he went from Oklahoma to France and back again ... without ever getting off dry land. He remembers several places I remember too, and several French words, but he says firmly, “We must of went different ways. I don’t rightly recollect no water, ever.””
—M.F.K. Fisher (1908–1992)
“In one notable instance, where the United States Army and a hundred years of persuasion failed, a highway has succeeded. The Seminole Indians surrendered to the Tamiami Trail. From the Everglades the remnants of this race emerged, soon after the trail was built, to set up their palm-thatched villages along the road and to hoist tribal flags as a lure to passing motorists.”
—For the State of Florida, U.S. public relief program (1935-1943)