Founder/President of the Iraq-Afghanistan and
Persian Gulf Veterans of the Pacific Rodney A. Cruz (Photo: Bruce Lloyd)
The Judiciary of Guam has announced seven justice-involved veterans have successfully completed the Veterans Treatment Court Program -- an intensive program designed to connect veterans suffering from substance use and/or mental health disorders with the benefits and treatment they have earned.
“We are restoring honor to valor,” said Superior Court Judge Maria T. Cenzon.
This is the second graduating class for the Guam Veterans Treatment Court since its launch on September 10, 2015 bringing the total number of graduates since its inception to 13.
The Guam Veterans Treatment Court combines rigorous treatment and accountability for justice-involved veterans facing incarceration due to charges stemming from substance abuse and/or mental health issues. This specialty court promotes sobriety, recovery and stability through a coordinated response and the understanding that the bonds of military service and combat run deep.
“You have to do what it takes to never come back to court,” said Judge Cenzon. “This is the next chapter in your life-see the changes in yourself and in your family.”
Veterans Treatment Courts not only allow veterans to go through the treatment court process with other veterans who are similarly situated and have common past experiences, but links them with Veterans Affairs services uniquely designed for the distinct needs that arise from that experience.
“Our life is no easy task,” said Keynote Speaker and Founder/President of the Iraq-Afghanistan and Persian Gulf Veterans of the Pacific Rodney A. Cruz. “Go forward and find your purpose-I salute you.”
Veterans Treatment Courts expedite access to veteran-specific resources, including benefits and treatment earned through military service, by involving the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs health care networks, the Veterans Benefits Administration, State Departments of Veterans Affairs, volunteer veteran mentors and veterans and veterans family support organizations.