SW Ohio county’s new veterans court offers help

Associated Press

DAYTON

A new veterans court in one of southwestern Ohio’s largest counties is trying to help and support criminal offenders who have served in the military.

The new Montgomery County court is one of about a dozen specialty courts or dockets in Ohio set up for veterans. Nine more courts around the state are awaiting certification for such efforts, according to the Dayton Daily News.

The court kicked off this month with eight defendants appearing before Montgomery County Common Pleas Court Judge Dennis Adkins, who thanked each of them for their military service before addressing their charges or probation possibilities.

“I figure if anyone needs a second chance or help, it’s those that have served our country,” Adkins said.

Veterans courts are designed to help former members of the military work on the issues that may have led to their crimes, such as substance abuse, post-traumatic stress disorder or mental health issues.

Court officials also can link participants to job training, benefits and housing services.