KANSAS HIGHWAY PATROL
TOPEKA, Kan. — Kansas Highway Patrol Superintendent Colonel Erik Smith has announced the promotion of Technical Trooper Chad Crittenden to Lieutenant. In his new role, Crittenden will oversee the agency’s Public Resource Officer (PRO) Program within the Recruitment and Community Engagement division.
Crittenden began his career with the Patrol in 2001 as a Motorist Assist Technician. He entered the Kansas Highway Patrol Training Academy in 2003 as a member of Class #39, shortly after earning his college degree. His first assignment was in Sedgwick County with Troop F. He was promoted to Master Trooper in 2010 and transitioned to the Public and Governmental Affairs Unit in 2014, serving as the PRO for Troop F until his recent promotion.
Throughout his tenure, Crittenden has made significant contributions to the Patrol. He served as a Pursuit Driving Instructor for 16 years and has mentored numerous new troopers as a Field Training Officer. In 2024, he was recognized with multiple Life Saving Awards for actions that directly saved lives. He currently serves as President of the National Uniformed Safety Education Officers Workshop (USEOW), representing the Kansas Highway Patrol at the national level.
A native of Wellington, Kansas, Crittenden graduated from Wellington High School and later earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice through Cowley College and Wichita State University. Before joining the Patrol, he worked for several local businesses in Wellington.
The Kansas Highway Patrol extended its congratulations to Lieutenant Crittenden and expressed confidence in his continued leadership and dedication to public safety.