In Omaha, the Douglas County Veterans Treatment Court honored a new graduate on April 29, 2021, while family, friends, members of the local community, and other participants observed via Zoom. The ceremony marks the completion of an intensive program of comprehensive mental health treatment, intensive community supervision, and full accountability for the graduate. Veterans Treatment Court Judge Horacio J. Wheelock presided over the ceremony, and Judge James T. Gleason was a speaker at the observance.

Veterans Treatment Courts are an alternate route through the criminal justice system for nonviolent drug-related offenders, which utilizes a specialized team process that functions within the existing court structure. The courts are designed to achieve a reduction in recidivism and substance use among individuals with substance use disorders. The court’s goal is to protect public safety and increase the participant’s likelihood of successful rehabilitation by utilizing validated risk and need assessments, early and individualized behavioral health treatment, frequent and random chemical testing, incentives, sanctions, and other rehabilitative and ancillary services.

For additional information, please contact Bill Payne, Coordinator, 402-444-4180.