Leadership change: Va. State Police Supt. Col. Gary Settle to retire in February

Governor Glenn Youngkin hasy announced that Col. Gary T. Settle, Superintendent of the Virginia State Police, will retire effective Feb. 1, 2025, after nearly four decades of dedicated service to the Commonwealth. He was re-appointed by Governor Youngkin in January 2022.

A nationwide search will be initiated to find a replacement for Col. Settle, with Lt. Col. Matt Hanley serving as the Acting Superintendent in the interim.

“Colonel Settle’s leadership, character and servant’s heart have kept Virginia safe. 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,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. 

Reflecting on his tenure, Col. Settle shared, “Serving Virginia by working with and leading the remarkable men and women of the Virginia State Police has been the honor of my lifetime. 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.”