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Greitens taps Karsten to become first female superintendent of Highway Patrol

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Lt. Col. Sandy Karsten was named the new head of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. She served as the second-in-command under former superintendent Col. Bret Johnson, who was appointed by former Gov. Jay Nixon.

“She has a distinguished 30 years in service during which time she was recognized numerous times for her work in DWI enforcement, on drug interdiction,” Greitens said of Karsten in front of a room of Highway Patrol recruits. “She’s risen from trooper to superintendent and led at each level with courage and commitment.”

“I know Lt. Col. Karsten is going to be an amazing superintendent.”

Gov. Eric Greitens shakes hands with recruits of the Missouri State Highway Patrol Feb. 1, 2017.
Gov. Eric Greitens shakes hands with recruits of the Missouri State Highway Patrol Feb. 1, 2017.

Greitens added that Karsten would fulfill the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s mission to “keep Missouri citizens safe.”

In her role as lieutenant colonel, she oversaw the Highway Patrol’s Professional Standards and Public Information and Education divisions and its legal counsel.

Karsten is not only the first woman to take on the role of superintendent, but she was also the first female officer to be promoted to the ranks of lieutenant, captain, major, and lieutenant-colonel in the Highway Patrol. She stated her passion for law enforcement has existed since she was 17 years old.

“I’m certainly humbled to be selected as the next superintendent of the patrol,” Karsten said. “It is my honor to accept this appointment.”

Greitens did not take questions regarding the appointment.