Lee County Veterans Treatment Court celebrates graduates

DIXON - The Lee County Veterans Treatment Court recently recognized four graduates from the program.

The court had its fifth graduation earlier this week with Lee County Associate Judge Theresa Friel-Draper serving as master of ceremonies.

The event included remarks from the graduates, a presentation from the Illinois Valley chapter of the Quilts of Valor Foundation for each veteran and a presentation of ribbons from the Daughters of the American Revolution.

The ceremony marks the completion of an intensive program focused on increasing positive outcomes for veterans in need of substance abuse and mental health early intervention and treatment, rather than jail time.

“Veterans are a symbol of what makes our nation great, and we must never forget all they have done to ensure our freedoms,” Friel-Draper said.

The Lee County Veterans Treatment Court began in November 2016.

Requirements for participants include having to remain drug and alcohol free for at least 6 months, be successfully engaged in treatment and productive activities, pay existing fines, have no new convictions and complete any special requirements set by the court.

Veterans Treatment Courts have gained national acclaim as the most innovative solution for veterans caught up in the criminal justice system due to substance use and/or mental health disorders and trauma.

A growing number of veterans suffer from PTSD and traumatic brain injury, and these issues can be exacerbated by the loss of structure and camaraderie found in the military, according to a news release. Research also continues to link substance use disorders with service-related mental health conditions.