The Fourth Judicial District Veterans Court is a success, if success is measured by recidivism, according to a state two-year review, available here.
It says that during the first six months after entry into Veterans Court, 83% of participants commit fewer offenses than during the six months just prior to entry. This pattern maintains through both years of data: 72% of participants who have at least 24 months post-entry commit fewer offenses than during the 24 months just prior to entering the court. It also says that the majority of Veterans Court participants have no new offenses while in the program, and those who do commit new offenses generally do so at a non-felony level.
It recommends a strong mentor program, the establishment of which is underway with the assistance of a volunteer coordinator.
This problem-solving court serves veteran defendants struggling with addiction, mental health issues, and/or co-occurring disorders. It promotes sobriety, recovery, and stability through a coordinated response that involves court and probation personnel along with the addition of the U.S Veterans Administration (VA) Medical Center, the Veterans Benefits Administration, and volunteer veteran mentors.
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