Attorney General Jeffrey S. Chiesa today announced the appointment of former Fair Haven Mayor Michael I. Halfacre as director of the New Jersey Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC).

In 2010, Halfacre ran unsuccessfully for the Republican nomination in the 12th Congressional District, losing to Princeton businessman Scott Sipprelle.

The 45-year-old Halfacre ran his own law practice, where he specialized in transactions, including transfers of ABC licenses and real estate sales and refinance.  In addition, he served as a municipal prosecutor in Little Silver and Rumson, where he argued for the convictions of drunk drivers and adults who provided alcohol to underage drinkers, according to the AG.

“Michael Halfacre brings an outstanding record as a municipal legal professional that will be vital to leading the Division of Alcoholic Beverage Control,” said Chiesa. “This is an important division with dedicated and expert legal and professional staff which regulates the commerce of alcoholic beverages within New Jersey.”

“I am honored and excited by this opportunity and I am grateful to Governor Christie and Attorney General Chiesa for the chance to serve the State of New Jersey,” Halfacre said. “From the outset, I will make combating underage drinking a priority, and strive to make our division more efficient and user-friendly to both the public and alcoholic beverage industry.”