Washington, D.C. – Congressman Jon Runyan (R-NJ), along with Burlington County Sheriff Jean Stanfield, hosted a diverse group of community leaders in an open discussion about gun violence. The discussion, which lasted for nearly two hours, included the insights of law enforcement, school officials, and mental health experts on issues related to gun violence and safety.

“I was pleased by the discussion and the ideas that were brought forth during this summit,” said Congressman Runyan. “The issue of gun violence is extremely complicated but this group did a tremendous job of coming up with ideas that may help curb violence in our communities and in our schools. I am also proud that this discussion did not devolve into partisan rhetoric and many different ideas were voiced and debated. I am looking forward to bringing many of the ideas back to Washington to share with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle, as well as the President and Vice President.”

Earlier this month, President Barack Obama unveiled his proposals to address gun violence and several members of Congress are looking to introduce legislation as well. During the meeting, Congressman Runyan stated his belief that any plan that will truly make changes will be one that is comprehensive and includes provisions about mental health awareness and treatment, school security, gun safety, and discussions about the increasing level of violence in entertainment, including television, movies, and video games.

Guests in attendance included John Angermeir the Chief of Detectives for the Burlington County Prosecutor’s office, the Warden of the Burlington County Jail Lawrence Artis, Robert Bernardi the Burlington County Prosecutor, the director of the division of Behavioral Health and Youth Services Barbara Biglin, Kelly Logan of Stop Drop Your Guns Inc, and Kristi Howell Ikeda the President of the Burlington County Chamber of Commerce.