A specialized court program in Prince William County is helping veterans rebuild their lives after involvement with the criminal justice system, according to an April 29 announcement. The Veterans Treatment Docket provides support and accountability for veterans facing substance use-related charges.
The initiative matters because it addresses both the legal and health challenges that many local veterans face. According to the U.S. Census, there are about 43,000 veterans living in Prince William County, with approximately 300 facing criminal charges related to substance use at any given time. Chris Mayers, Veterans Treatment Docket Coordinator, said that one in every fifteen veterans needs substance use treatment and many also live with co-occurring mental health disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injury.
The program connects participants with resources to address underlying causes of their legal issues. A team consisting of representatives from the Prince William Commonwealth Attorney’s Office, public defenders, probation officers, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Veterans Justice Outreach Program and the Virginia Department of Veterans Services works together to help these individuals succeed.
Prince William General District Court Judge Wallace S. Covington III presided over a recent ceremony recognizing graduates of the program and thanked those involved for their support: “Those partnerships are integral to helping support the staff and the mentors that come in to help this whole program.” Covington also said: “We’re supporting our military, which is what this is about,” adding that he hopes similar efforts can be expanded community-wide.
Participants must commit to a minimum one-year process involving regular court appearances twice a month, drug testing, classes and meetings. Successful completion can result in reduced or dismissed sentences. At a recent event seven participants had their charges dismissed after finishing the program.
Graduates described how participation provided them not only structure but a second chance at life. Ramon Nieto said: “I’m glad to say that I’ve really, truly been able to get some tools to my toolbox and really meet some great people and just really dive into this and figure out some of the things that have been causing me trauma for years.” Edvin Martinez shared: “I do appreciate this program…because of this my kids have a better father.”
Veterans interested in joining must volunteer for consideration by contacting coordinator Chris Mayers or submitting a referral form.
