Jones takes oath as U.S. Bureau of ATF director

WASHINGTON, Aug. 29 (UPI) -- B. Todd Jones took the oath of office Thursday in Washington as Director of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

With his confirmation, Jones, who has been acting director of the agency since august 2011, becomes the agency's first permanent director in seven years, a Department of Justice Statement said.

Vice President Joe Biden administered the oath at the White House.

While serving as acting director, Jones also was the U.S. Attorney for the District of Minnesota.