Veteran's Court in Ingham County officially opens for business May 3

Mid-Michigan veterans who suffer from medical and psychological problems, and get into trouble with the law, are slated to get an assist from a Veterans' Treatment Court program in Ingham County. The program is a cooperative effort of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs; the Ingham County Circuit Court; the 54A, 54B, and 55th District Courts; and Ingham County prosecuting officials and police agencies. The program, which will be housed at the 54B District Court in East Lansing, features mentoring by other military veterans. A ceremony is planned for Monday, May 3 at 2 p.m. to mark the launching of the program, which the Michigan Supreme Court authorized in an order dated April 15. The ceremony will take place at the 54B District Court. Featured speakers include Michigan Supreme Court Chief Justice Marilyn Kelly and 54B District Court Judge David L. Jordon. Commonly known as "specialty courts," veterans' courts and other problem-solving courts work to address criminal behavior by treating underlying problems, such as drug addiction, alcohol abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder, and traumatic brain injury. Key features include treatment, intensive supervision, frequent judicial review hearings, and graduated incentives and sanctions. Because rehabilitation is the primary goal, problem-solving courts are often described as providing "therapeutic jurisprudence." Participants are held accountable and face sanctions for noncompliance with program rules. Studies indicate that these programs reduce recidivism and are less costly over the long term than incarceration. Kelly observed, "In addition to reducing recidivism and saving taxpayer dollars, the Veterans' Treatment Court helps veterans maintain their families and build a stronger community." Jordon noted that "Other state courts that have established treatment for veterans have zero recidivism. We aspire to that goal as well. "These men and women have been placed in harm's way on our behalf. They deserve no less," Jordon stated. The program will be held in Courtroom 2 of the 54B District Court, located at 101 Linden Street, East Lansing, MI 48823. Published: Mon, May 3, 2010

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