Sussex County Commissioners Denounce Violence at the Capitol Building

(Newton, NJ) In the wake of the violence on Jan. 6 at the United States Capitol Building, the
Sussex County Board of County Commissioners shared the following statement:

“What we witnessed in our nation’s capital last week has no place in our nation.

Violence in the wake of elections is unacceptable and threatens our institutions and values,”
stated Commissioner Deputy Director Anthony Fasano. “The challenges we face are best
faced together.”

Commissioner Sylvia Petillo continued, “The violent actions that erupted at the Capitol Building
were disturbing and absolutely frightening. Right now, there is so much tension
surrounding this election that it is easy to lose sight of the fact that we are all Americans. We
should be proud and protective of what we have established and accomplished during our 245 years as
a free Republic. Hopefully, moving forward we can put aside our differences, renew a united spirit,
and remember…we all salute the same flag.”

“America has a long history of protest. It is a way for the citizens of the country to make their
voices heard,” added Commissioner Herb Yardley. “But when it is combined with violence and
destruction, it cannot be condoned.”

“The violence on display at our nation’s Capitol Building is completely unacceptable, and the loss
of life horrifying,” stated Commissioner Director Dawn Fantasia. “We cannot condone violent
protests, destruction of property, and blatant disregard for the rule of law, and must hold those
who commit acts of violence accountable.”

Fantasia made reference to rallies and protests held across Sussex County, citing those political
in nature, against racism, and in support of law enforcement.

“Sussex County has been home to multiple rallies and protests spanning the past year, and not a
single event ever escalated into violence of any kind, much less the type of violence we witnessed
at the Capitol or in cities across the country this summer. This is a testament to the ideals and
the standards the residents of our county hold ourselves to. The right to free speech and to
assemble peaceably is accompanied by the responsibility to exhibit behavior that ensures the safety
of all persons and property, and I am proud that Sussex County proved itself to be a shining
example of how exercising our First Amendment rights should look.”

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