Governor Kevin Stitt Appoints New Commissioner Of Public Safety

Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt has announced his choice to be the next Commissioner of Public Safety.

Governor Stitt announced Thursday that he has chosen OHP Captain Tim Tipton to take over the department on Friday, September 10, when current Commissioner John Scully retires.

“This appointment is the greatest professional honor of my life,” said Tipton. “My primary areas of focus will be trooper safety and wellbeing, and customer service. I value the high standards, traditions, and history of the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and it is a privilege to see the men and women of the OHP uphold these high standards of service to their fellow Oklahomans daily, even during the most trying times law enforcement has ever seen.”

Tipton is the field commander of the OHP's Tactical Team and Emergency Response Team. He is also a nationally recognized expert on use of force and other training practices.

“I have seen Captain Tipton’s experienced and steady leadership and his commitment to keeping Oklahomans safe firsthand over the past few years and know he is the perfect choice to lead the Department of Public Safety,” said Governor Stitt. “He is a national expert in effective law enforcement procedures and know he will lead by example and maintain the highest of standards.”

The state Senate will have to confirm the appointment during the next legislative session.