rdf:langString The Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP) is a major state law enforcement agency of the government of Oklahoma. A division of the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety, the OHP has traffic enforcement jurisdiction throughout the state. OHP was legislatively created on July 1, 1937, due to the growing problem of motor vehicle collisions, the expansion of highway systems, and the increase in criminal activities. As the principal statewide law enforcement agency in Oklahoma, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol is dedicated to providing quality policing, directed primarily at achieving safer roadways and reducing crime through pro-active investigations, education and patrol services, and by providing leadership and resources during natural disasters, civil disorders and critical incidents. OHP has patrol jurisdiction over all state highways and waterways in Oklahoma, regulating motor vehicles, regulating explosive devices, and providing protection for the Governor of Oklahoma, the Lieutenant Governor of Oklahoma and members of the Oklahoma Legislature. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol is under the command of Pat Mays, who is the current Chief of Patrol. Chief Mays was appointed by DPS Commissioner Tim Tipton to succeed Sugg as chief.