Virginia State Police superintendent announces retirement plans
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Virginia State Police Superintendent Col. Gary T. Settle announced his retirement today, effective Feb. 1, after nearly four decades of service to Virginia.
Gov. Glenn Youngkin, who re-appointed Settle in January 2022, praised his leadership and commitment to law enforcement.
“Colonel Settle’s leadership, character and servant’s heart has kept Virginia safe," Youngkin said. "His love of the commonwealth, his community and the troopers he led will continue to be felt for years to come. As superintendent of the Virginia State Police, he’s led with an unwavering commitment to our law enforcement heroes and I’m incredibly grateful for his career of service."
Lt. Col. Matt Hanley will serve as acting superintendent while a nationwide search for Settle's replacement is underway.
Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security Terry Cole commended Settle's "exemplary leadership, commitment to service, and decades of dedication," praising his lasting impact on the Virginia State Police and the commonwealth.
“Serving Virginia by working with and leading the remarkable men and women of the Virginia State Police has been the honor of my lifetime," Settle said. "As I prepare to step down, I do so with immense pride in what we have accomplished together and with full confidence in the continued excellence and integrity of this esteemed agency. I am deeply grateful for the experiences, opportunities, and support afforded me by the exceptional sworn and civilian personnel within the VSP family.”
