Investigation reveals top officials at Oregon Liquor and Cannabis Commission diverted rare bourbon bottles for personal gain.

The executive director of Oregon’s Liquor and Cannabis Commission (OLCC), Steve Marks, resigned following an internal investigation that uncovered a scheme where high-ranking officials illegally diverted rare bottles of bourbon from state-controlled warehouses. The bottles were intended for public sale, but instead, officials hoarded them for personal use, including sought-after brands such as Pappy Van Winkle bourbon, which can sell for thousands of dollars.

Marks announced his resignation after being requested to step down by Governor Tina Kotek. In his resignation letter, Marks stated that he believed the governor was entitled to choose her own leadership team and would step down as of February 15, 2023.

The investigation, sparked by a whistleblower from within the agency, revealed that at least six OLCC employees abused their positions, securing rare liquor bottles for themselves and others, including state legislators. The agency’s internal memo described how these actions were an open secret, with one source stating that the practice of holding back products for personal gain was widespread within the OLCC.

Marks admitted to his involvement in the practice, confirming that he had diverted liquor for personal use. The investigation’s findings led to Governor Kotek condemning the behaviour as “wholly unacceptable” and vowing to hold those responsible accountable.

Following the revelations, the Oregon Attorney General’s office initiated a criminal probe into the matter, with a civil investigation potentially following. The scandal has sparked widespread criticism, raising concerns about ethics and accountability within the state’s liquor regulation system.