Halfacre,
45, of Fair Haven, is an attorney who 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 nearby Little Silver and Rumson, where
he argued for the convictions of drunk drivers
and adults who provided alcohol to underage
drinkers. Halfacre also previously served
as mayor of Fair Haven.
“Michael
Halfacre brings an outstanding record as
a municipal legal professional that will
be vital to leading the Division of Alcoholic
Beverage Control,” said Attorney General
Chiesa. “This is an important division
with dedicated and expert legal and professional
staff which regulates the commerce of alcoholic
beverages within New Jersey.”
The
division is charged with protecting and
furthering the public welfare by fostering
moderation and responsibility in the sale
and consumption of alcoholic beverages.
The agency also ensures the economic of
the alcoholic beverage industry to New Jersey
by maintaining the stability of the industry
and securing state revenues derived from
the commerce of alcoholic beverages. The
division has also taken a leadership role
in promoting several programs to deter underage
drinking.
“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.”
Halfacre
steps into the job following the signing
last month of a major piece of legislation
by Governor Christie that would allow New
Jersey wineries producing 250,000 gallons
or less of wine annually to ship to directly
customers. The law also lets small in-state
and out-of-state wineries operate up to
16 sales outlets in New Jersey.
Halfacre
will succeed Jerry Fischer, who has been
Director since 2000.
He
earned his undergraduate degree in Political
Science from Florida State University and
his law degree from the University of Dayton.
He was admitted to the New Jersey Bar in
1991. He is married to Tricia, and has three
children: Ellie, Matthew and Marshall.