Type: Government Agency
On the web: http://www.chp.ca.gov

The state mascot of California is the grizzly bear; an unofficial one for the California Highway Patrol (CHP) might be the duo Ponch and Jon, motorcycle-cops of the TV series "CHiPs." CHP is committed to preventing property damage, injuries, and (worse) loss of life on the state's roads. The agency's aim is to reduce the number of traffic collisions through law enforcement, public education, and highway engineering. CHP also offers emergency assistance, including disaster relief and lifesaving help. Established in 1929 by the state legislature, the agency's programs include crime prevention, community outreach, accident investigation, and vehicle theft training. CHP has an annual budget of more than $2 billion.

Officers:
Commissioner: Joseph A. (Joe) Farrow
Deputy Commissioner: Skip Carter
Chief, Informational Management Division: Reginald J. (Reggie) Chappelle

© 2012 Hoover's, Inc. All rights reserved.