After three decades in law enforcement, Captain Erik A. Gottman is retiring from the Missouri State Highway Patrol.
Gottman's retirement becomes effective Aug. 1, ending a 30-year career that began with the Missouri State Water Patrol in 1995. During his time there, he rose through the ranks from corporal to lieutenant before the Water Patrol merged with the Missouri State Highway Patrol in 2011.
He was assigned to Troop B following the merger and was promoted to captain in 2020, becoming the troop's commanding officer.
A Hannibal High School graduate, Gottman earned a degree in criminal justice administration from Hannibal-LaGrange College. He also completed several advanced leadership programs during his career, including the FBI National Academy in 2019.
Missouri State Highway Patrol Superintendent Colonel Michael A. Turner announced Gottman's retirement, recognizing his 30 years of service to the state.
Gottman and his wife, Ashley, have one son, Colton.
