New court to link veterans with services
PantagraphDec 27, 2017
After a year of planning, a team of about 35 people involved in the criminal justice system and veterans affairs recently approved the final procedures for the problem-solving court. After final approval by the
The possibility of a veterans court for
But the 2016 mandate from the state that each judicial circuit establish a veterans court and a nudge from local judges put the idea back on the table for review, said Taylor.
Judge
The court will have a capacity of 40 veterans, a number that organizers believe will be reached because the program covers
Honorably discharged veterans are eligible for the intensive probation program that allows them to apply for expungement of their record after they graduate.
Potential clients for the voluntary program will be identified during the intake process at county jails. If needs are identified by jail staff, the
After coordination with the state's attorney's office and court services, the veteran will be screened for the program aimed at providing treatment for those recovering from the consequences of their military service, including PTSD, traumatic brain injuries and substance abuse.
"There was a lot of dissatisfaction within the veterans community about having a separate court for veterans. There was a stigma attached to it. Veterans believe they are personally responsible to take care of themselves," said Vogler.
The supervisor of the veterans support agency is hopeful the county's third problem-solving court will be an important resource for military members.
"The veterans court gives them an alternative, a better option, to address the issues that caused them to be involved with the law," said Vogler, who estimated that only about 70 percent of those who are eligible for assistance for a service-related disability apply for help.
Mental health and substance abuse treatment will be provided through the
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