Woodbury County officials recently told legislators about their special Veterans Court to help veterans who become involved in the criminal justice system.
Veterans throughout the country face unique issues after being deployed to combat zones. Often these vets are coping with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), traumatic brain injury or substance abuse. Unfortunately, upon their return home, many become involved with the criminal justice system because of troubles related to their military combat experience.
To help, Veterans Courts have been established throughout the country to address the specific needs of veterans and ensure they get the services they are entitled to from the Veterans’ Administration. The Veterans Court model involves regular court appearances, mandatory treatment sessions and random drug testing.
Modeled on drug courts and mental health courts, Veterans Courts aim to keep more veterans out of prison. Veterans who have been charged with crimes can be placed on probation and diverted to the Veterans Court where they are closely supervised and required to adhere to strict conditions of probation.
Iowa is fortunate to have joined the states that have established these specialized courts. We now have our first Veterans Court in Woodbury County. Judge Jeffrey Poulson is heading it up. He says these courts are successful because they focus on the uniqueness of military experiences and have the expertise of Veterans Court staff to address them.
Woodbury County officials collected data regarding the number of veterans being booked into the county jail. Over a two-month period, the jail averaged one veteran per day. That is a significant number, which tells us we need to take a different approach to helping some of our veterans readjust to civilian life.
The supports and structure provided by the Veterans Court make it less likely veterans will become repeat offenders. The goal is to ensure they meet their obligations to themselves, the court and their community. Those who’ve served and sacrificed deserve all the help we can provide.
State Sen. Chaz Allen, represents much of Jasper and eastern Polk counties. Contact him during the week by calling the Senate Switchboard at 515-281-3371. Otherwise, he can be reached at 641-521-6297 or by email at chaz.allen@legis.iowa.gov.