Oklahoma Highway Patrol Names New Chief

NewsOn6.com

OKLAHOMA CITY -- The man tasked with protecting Oklahomans from terrorism for the past seven years is the new head of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.

Kerry Pettingill will give up his job as the director of Oklahoma's office of Homeland Security to become the state's top trooper.

"I am deeply humbled and honored that Commissioner-select Thompson has entrusted me with this great responsibility, and I look forward to leading the men and women of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol," he said.

Previously served as the OHP Deputy Chief and first joined the highway patrol in 1982.