The **Oregon State Police (OSP)** is a comprehensive law enforcement agency serving all 36 counties of Oregon. Its mission is to safeguard life, property, and natural resources by delivering high-quality public safety services through a diverse, professional, and trustworthy workforce[1][4]. Established to enforce all criminal laws of Oregon, OSP provides critical support to local law enforcement agencies, especially in rural areas where resources may be limited[2]. Under the leadership of Superintendent Casey Codding since February 2023, the agency emphasizes protection, prevention, and community partnership[2][7].
OSP is more than a highway patrol; it encompasses multiple specialized divisions, including Patrol Services, Criminal Investigations, Forensics, State Fire Marshal, Fish and Wildlife, Gaming Enforcement, and the Medical Examiner’s Office[1][2]. These divisions allow OSP to address a broad spectrum of public safety challenges, from traffic enforcement on state highways to complex criminal investigations, arson, explosives, wildlife protection, and gaming regulation. Its unique role also includes monitoring the security of the Oregon State Lottery, a rarity among U.S. law enforcement agencies[2].
With approximately 1,500 full-time employees, including 766 sworn officers, OSP maintains a robust operational capacity. Its workforce is organized into specialized units such as SWAT, Dignitary Protection, Mobile Response Teams, and a Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) division that manages biometric and criminal history data statewide[4][6]. The agency prioritizes values of honor, loyalty, dedication, compassion, and integrity, and invests in diversity, equity, inclusion, and employee wellness to enhance effectiveness and community trust[4][6].
Notable achievements include the integration of advanced forensic services and the strategic management of Oregon’s natural resources through the Fish and Wildlife Division. OSP’s broad jurisdiction and multi-disciplinary approach position it as a model agency in balancing traditional law enforcement with specialized functions, making it vital for public safety and resource protection in Oregon's