Lt. Joel Peterson, a 20-year veteran of the South Dakota Highway Patrol, has been named as the Patrol’s new assistant superintendent in charge of field operations.
Peterson was promoted to major during a pinning ceremony yesterday (Aug. 1, 2022). Peterson will work with Highway Patrol Superintendent Col. Rick Miller and Maj. Jason Ketterling, the assistant superintendent in charge of administrative and special operations.
During his time with the Highway Patrol, Peterson has served in various roles including as a SWAT operator and firearms instructor. Peterson’s first duty station was in Yankton where he served until being promoted as sergeant in 2012 for the Patrol’s Motor Carrier Division. In 2013, he was promoted to Lieutenant and until now had served as assistant district commander in charge of operations in the Motor Carrier Division.
Peterson and his wife, Julie, have three children and four grandchildren. They are also foster parents.
“In every role, Lt. Peterson has a positive can-do attitude. Joel will be a good fit at headquarters. In his previous roles, he has worked with various stakeholders inside and outside the Highway Patrol” said Col. Miller. “The field experience he has gained throughout the years will serve him well in his new position.”
The Highway Patrol is an agency of the South Dakota Department of Public Safety.
Courtesy photo.
Comments