Seven Graduate Veterans Treatment Court
Seven former members of our Armed Services graduated from the Cuyahoga County Common Plea Veterans Treatment Court (VTC) on Tuesday, March 8, 2022. Three of the graduates had their cases expunged.
“It's an honor to be able to help these men and women who have served our nation,” says VTC Presiding Judge John J. Russo. “Graduation speaks to the obstacles they have overcome to resolve these cases.”
VTC accepts former members of the military accused of felony-level crimes, with the cases referred to the docket by the Court’s 34 judges. In many instances, the criminal activity stems from lingering issues they may be dealing with because of their military experience. Through the VTC program, veterans are diverted from the traditional criminal justice system and are provided with tools that are unique to veterans. They also work one-on-one with a peer mentor, someone else who has also served in the military.
Judge Russo presided over the ceremony, offering the welcome and opening remarks. A highlight of the program is always the presentation of Challenge Coins and certificates, as well as remarks by the Graduates.
