Gov. Kristi Noem appoints new superintendent to Highway Patrol

Veteran trooper becomes 15th leader since founding of the patrol

Gov. Kristi Noem named a 15-year veteran of the South Dakota Highway Patrol as the next superintendent, the office announced Friday.

Capt. Casey Collins assumes the post on Jan. 22. He succeeds Col. Rick Miller, who retired.

“Capt. Collins brings a wealth of experience and is well-positioned to lead the SDHP into its next chapter,” Public Safety Secretary Robert Perry said in a statement. “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.”

Collins, 36, becomes the 15th superintendent since the Highway Patrol’s founding in 1937. A command transfer ceremony will be at a later date, and Collins will assume the rank of colonel.

During his career with the patrol, Collins served as the District Three commander in Rapid City. He is married with two children.

“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 Secretary Perry for this opportunity,” Collins said in a statement. “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.”

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