NC State Highway Patrol becomes independent agency

RALEIGH, N.C. (QUEEN CITY NEWS) — The State of North Carolina announces a significant organizational change. Effective Tuesday, the N.C. State Highway Patrol will operate as an independent agency, separate from the Department of Public Safety.

This separation is aimed at enhancing operational focus, accountability and service delivery for both entities.

Highway Patrol will now report directly to the Office of the Governor, with the commander of the State Highway Patrol, Col. Freddy L. Johnson Jr., providing leadership and oversight to the newly formed department.

Today marks an important day in both the history of our agency as we proudly celebrate the 96th anniversary of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol and the beginning of a future that I believe only builds on our strong commitment to public safety. Since our founding in 1929, the Patrol has stood as a symbol of dedication, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of all North Carolinians. I am personally looking forward to what the future holds with this exciting change and know that our success is a certainty thanks to the people that collectively make-up our state’s largest law enforcement agency.
Colonel Johnson

Sworn members transitioning from the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles License and Theft Bureau will take their oath Tuesday at a ceremony held in Raleigh as officers with Highway Patrol. 

The N.C. State Capitol Police will remain an independent agency under the direction of Johnson.