St. Lucie County’s Veterans Treatment Court offers a unique approach to addressing non-violent offenses committed by veterans who have served in both peacetime and wartime. Since inception on Aug. 8, 2014, the court has significantly reduced recidivism and lowered incarceration costs by diverting veterans from jail and focusing on their rehabilitation. Rather than solely addressing the crimes and penalties, the court seeks to address underlying issues such as health concerns, substance use, and psychosocial challenges. 

The program is designed for veterans or service members charged with or convicted of non-violent criminal offenses who suffer from service-related conditions, including PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, military sexual trauma, and mental health or substance use disorder. Entry to the Veterans Court is not automatic, and eligible participants must reside in St. Lucie County. Veterans must apply for admission to the program through the State Attorney’s Office.

Modeled after successful national initiatives, the St. Lucie County’s Veterans Treatment Court is the result of collaboration between the 19th Judicial Circuit Court, the State Attorney’s Office, the Public Defender’s Office, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, St. Lucie County Veterans Services Office and other community partners.

The court operates through a non-adversarial approach, where a dedicated judge, court staff, treatment team, and veteran mentors work together to break the cycle of substance use and criminal behavior while addressing mental and physical health needs. The program emphasizes personal responsibility, with clear and certain rules that allow participant’s compliance to control their own progress.

Studies have shown that many veterans struggle to reintegrate into civilian life due to PTSD, injuries, disabilities, substance use and mental health disorders, compounded by unemployment, housing, and family challenges. This is not unique to St. Lucie County but is a widespread issue across the United States. Veterans facing legal challenges often need counseling and support rather than incarceration. The veteran mentor program is key to the court’s success, as each participant is paired with a veteran mentor, often from the same branch of service or war era. This mentorship creates a strong bond that supports veterans through the program, helping them successfully complete it and reintegrate back into society.

In recognition of the sacrifices made by these veterans, the Veterans Treatment Court offers a crucial opportunity for a second chance. The success of the program, however, is heavily dependent on volunteer veteran mentors who provide essential support to participants, including accompanying them to court sessions and assisting with transportation to court-mandated program requirements such as drug testing and treatment sessions.

Veterans interested in volunteering as a mentor or supporting the Veterans Treatment Court program are encouraged to contact Jerry Johnson, Mentor Coordinator, at 917-664-2658 or email jerryjohnsonslcvtc@gmail.com .