Trumbull County Probate Court starts veterans assistance program

WARREN — Because military veterans sometimes return to the community after their military service with emotional needs that can lead to legal issues, the Trumbull County Probate Court has started a Veterans Assistance Program.

Trumbull County Probate Court Judge James Frederica announced today that the program will begin next month, providing veterans with a way to get help for emotional, financial and legal problems.

The mission statement of the program is to “provide access to justice for our deserving veterans and seek solutions, treatment and diversion rather than punishment for the necessary support to help veterans lead stable, law abiding, and healthy lives as positive and productive members of this community.”

A treatment team consisting of coaches or sponsors who are also veterans, mental health professionals including the Trumbull County Mental Health and Recovery Board, will “devise a specific plan for each specific case,” Judge Fredicka said.

“Our goal is to rehab the returning veteran to get him treatment to return him to our community,” he said. “Studies indicate this program works. It’s a positive and productive program.”

It was organized through the Ohio Supreme Court and has the blessing of the judges and prosecutors in all of the municipal courts and county courts in Trumbull County. They include the courts in Warren, Niles, Newton Falls, Girard, Cortland and Brookfield.

For the complete story, see Tuesday's Vindicator.