By: Richard L. Smith
The Burlington County Prosecutor’s Office was formally recognized this week by the Burlington County Board of Commissioners for its continued commitment to curbing gun violence in the region, in observance of National Gun Violence Awareness Month.
During the meeting, Prosecutor LaChia L. Bradshaw and BCPO Chief of Investigations Patrick J. Thornton highlighted recent progress in public safety, noting a 43 percent increase in gun seizures and a 28 percent reduction in shootings across the county compared to the previous year.
The officials attributed the improvement to a coordinated, multi-agency approach involving law enforcement partners across local and state levels.
“Our collaborative strategy continues to yield results that protect lives and bring peace to neighborhoods across Burlington County,” Prosecutor Bradshaw said.
“We are grateful for the tireless efforts of our partners and remain committed to building safer communities.”
Gun Violence Awareness Month, held each June, is a national campaign aimed at honoring victims and survivors of gun violence while promoting prevention strategies through community education and advocacy.
The initiative began in 2015 in memory of Hadiya Pendleton, a Chicago teenager who was tragically shot and killed just one week after performing at President Obama’s second inaugural parade.
According to information released by Everytown for Gun Safety, one of the leading advocacy groups behind the campaign, supporters across the country are encouraged to wear orange, a color symbolizing the value of human life, to raise awareness and spark conversations around gun safety legislation and reform.
Local governments, law enforcement agencies, and community organizations nationwide have joined in recognizing the month through educational events, public discussions, and policy initiatives aimed at reducing the impact of gun violence.
The New Jersey Office of the Attorney General stated that it has invested in several violence intervention and prevention programs, including funding for community-based outreach teams and enhanced data-sharing systems that enable quicker responses to emerging threats.
Burlington County’s efforts remain part of a larger statewide commitment to proactive enforcement, intervention, and public engagement. 
Prosecutor Bradshaw reaffirmed that the office will continue to work hand-in-hand with partners and residents to reduce gun violence and protect all communities
within the county.