Governor names new director for Department of Public Safety

The current director for the Missouri Department of Public Safety, Drew Juden, will step down beginning Aug. 31 and will be replaced with Colonel Sandra K. Karsten.

Governor Mike Parson announced Friday that Karsten will temporarily replace Juden until he appoints a new director. According to Press Secretary Kelli Jones, the governor chose to replace Juden as part of his transition into governorship.

“Drew is a well accomplished public servant,” Parson said in a press release. “We appreciate his time and service to the State of Missouri and wish him well in the future.”

Karsten will also continue her role as superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, according to the governor’s office. She has 33 years of experience in law enforcement.

The governor’s office said it will appoint a new director in the near future.