Florida Highway Patrol gets new director

Wednesday, Historic City News was informed that Lt. Col. David H. Brierton Jr. was named the new Director of the Florida Highway Patrol.

Brierton was selected from a field of more than 50 applicants from across the nation.

“The appointment of David Brierton as director of the Florida Highway Patrol reinforces my commitment to public safety,” said Governor Rick Scott. “I am confident that he will provide the necessary leadership and accountability to guide this dedicated group of law enforcement officers.”

Brierton previously served as FHP’s Deputy Director of Field Operations with direct responsibilities for Troop Operations, Investigations, Contraband Interdiction, Emergency Operations and Homeland Security. He has served the residents and visitors of Florida with distinction as a dedicated member of the Patrol since September 1983.

In announcing the appointment, Julie Jones, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, said, “David Brierton has a tremendous record of public service and has the experience, strong leadership skills and vision necessary to lead the dedicated men and women of the Florida Highway Patrol into the future.”

An Army veteran, Brierton served as a member of the Military Police prior to joining the FHP. He is a graduate of Mountain State University with a Bachelor of Science in Administration of Criminal Justice, and has completed specialized training that includes the 27th Command Officer Development Course (Southern Police Institute) and the 41st Chief Executive Seminar (Florida Criminal Justice Executive Institute).

“It is an honor and a privilege to serve as a law enforcement officer, and I am humbled by the opportunity to lead this great organization,” Brierton said. “Our leadership team will work hard to set a proactive course for the Patrol in order to fulfill our mission of providing the safest driving environment for everyone who travels Florida’s roadways, and I look forward to working with our outstanding members, law enforcement partners and stakeholders.”

In 2006, Brierton was appointed lieutenant colonel and charged with oversight of Patrol Operations, Investigations, Contraband Interdiction, Emergency Operations and Homeland Security.