NEWS RELEASE



For further information please contact:

Capt. J. Tim Hull

(573) 526-6115

Q8063

August 15, 2006

EMPHASIS: Major James F. Keathley Named Superintendent Effective September 1, 2006



Governor Matt Blunt announced today, August 15, 2006, that Major James F. Keathley will be designated superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, upon the retirement of Colonel Roger D. Stottlemyre. This appointment is effective September 1, 2006. In this position, Major Keathley will hold the rank of colonel and be responsible for guiding the employees of the Patrol in their mission of serving and protecting the people of Missouri.



Major Keathley was appointed to the Patrol as a commercial vehicle inspector in 1977. On July 8, 1979, he entered the Patrol’s Law Enforcement Academy in Jefferson City, as a member of the 50th Recruit Class. After being commissioned in graduation ceremonies on December 7, 1979, then-Trooper Keathley was assigned to Troop E, Zone 3, Lutesville, MO. On September 1, 1985, he transferred into the Division of Drug and Crime Control, Troop E Unit. Keathley was promoted to corporal on July 1, 1987; sergeant on June 1, 1990; and lieutenant on December 1, 1992. He was promoted to captain on June 1, 1994, and designated director of the Division of Drug and Crime Control. Colonel Stottlemyre promoted Keathley to the rank of major on September 1, 2001, and designated him as commander of the Criminal Investigations Bureau.



Major Keathley was born in Cape Girardeau, MO. He graduated from Marquand-Zion High School in Marquand, MO, in 1971. He earned a bachelor’s of science degree in biology and agriculture from Southeast Missouri State University in 1976. He is married and has two sons, both of whom are members of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Cpl. Lonnie J. Keathley is assigned to Troop C, St. Louis; Trooper Jeremie L. Keathley is assigned to Troop I, Rolla.