Governor Jim Justice has announced that Fred Wooton has been selected as the new commissioner of the West Virginia Alcohol Beverage Control Administration.

Wooton has been with the state ABCA for more than 25 years serving in a variety of roles including as an Inspector, Enforcement Agent and Enforcement Supervisor. He has instructed officers and cadets at the West Virginia State Police Academy on Alcohol Beverage Control laws, rules and regulations since 2004, and for a number of years Wooton has served on the Policies and Procedures Executive Committee at ABCA.

“Fred Wooton brings years of service and knowledge to this position and we are delighted to have someone with his background to serve in this important role,” said Justice. “His experience, starting from the ground up with the ABCA, makes him a perfect fit for this job.”

“After more than 25 years with the ABCA, the Governor’s expression of confidence in me is the highlight of my professional career,” said Wooton. “I am truly humbled and grateful to have been selected by Governor Justice to serve as Commissioner of the West Virginia ABCA. Like all West Virginians, I am aware of the significant financial challenges we are facing. Because of Governor Justice’s leadership, I am confident that better days are ahead and we are prepared at the ABCA to do our part to help him turn this state around.”

Prior to joining the ABCA, Wooton worked approximately 12 years in the lodging, food and beverage industry in southern West Virginia. He is a 1984 graduate of the West Virginia University College of Business and Economics with a BS in Business Administration. He currently resides in Beckley with his wife, Debra.