EDITORIAL: Editorial: Veterans treatment court is a Marin success

Jan. 30—For many years, Marin County courts have worked to practice restorative justice as a principle aimed at keeping lawbreakers from lengthy stints in jail and prison and ending a cycle of recidivism.

Its youth and drug courts have been good examples, providing convicted offenders a pathway toward making restoration and getting the therapy and counseling they need, steering toward law-abiding lives.

Thanks to the leadership and commitment of Marin Judge Roy Chernus, many veterans are being offered a second chance.

The county courts launched its veterans treatment court, giving those who have served in our nation's military a chance to have their criminal records dismissed or expunged upon their completion of a rehabilitation program.

Its first graduation ceremony was held recently. About 60 veterans have been referred to the court since the opportunity was first offered in July.

Marin District Attorney Lori Frugoli said more than nine veterans have already completed the program.

One was an Army veteran who said the program led him away from a life "on the streets stuck on meth." He's now a student headed for pre-law courses at the University of California at Berkeley.

A turnaround like that is extremely impressive.

For many, the program leads them to getting the help they earned from serving our country as a member of the armed forces.

Some veterans don't qualify for the county program due to the seriousness of their crime. But for others, it can be the key to a productive life.

Some are getting the help they need to cope with post-traumatic stress disorder, among the list of military-linked mental and emotional problems and injuries that could possibly lead to dependencies and run-ins with the law.

While at first, Chernus says he had to convince his fellow judges that there were enough veterans to justify a special treatment court program, the numbers haven't been as important as the successes.

The cooperation of the district attorney, public defender and probation office are also needed.

These are veterans — men and women who have served their nation. Many deserve a second chance, a second opportunity, with help and their own commitment.

Giving them this chance, one with strict guidelines and expectations of compliance, can make the difference between a life in and out of jail and one of being a productive member of society — and an example to other veterans who find themselves in trouble with the law.

The veterans treatment court is another example of the county's commitment to restorative justice and its possible benefits to individuals, their families and the community.

The successes are impressive. Helping people turn their lives around, helping them help themselves, plays a large role in turning one-time lawbreakers into law-abiding, productive members of our community.

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