Luzerne County Pennsylvania Veterans Track Treatment Court Program
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Mission of the Luzerne County Veterans Track
The Luzerne County Veterans Track aims to enhance public safety and hold veterans accountable for their actions while offering a pathway to rehabilitation. This program connects veterans with the treatment services they need through a comprehensive and structured approach.
What Is the Luzerne County Veterans Track?
Veterans treatment courts are specialized programs designed to assist veterans who are battling addiction, mental illness, or co-occurring disorders and who have become involved in the criminal justice system.
Luzerne County offers a Veterans “Track” rather than a full court. This optional track is available for veterans participating in the county’s Drug Treatment Court or DUI Treatment Court. The program uses the successful drug court model, combining frequent drug testing, treatment services, immediate sanctions, and incentives to address substance abuse issues among nonviolent offenders.
Eligibility for the Veterans Track
To qualify for the Luzerne County Veterans Track, applicants must:
Be veterans of the U.S. military.
Reside in Luzerne County.
Be at least 18 years old.
Have committed nonviolent offenses related to drug or alcohol addiction.
Ineligible offenses include:
Current charges or prior convictions for violent crimes as defined by state and federal law.
Felony sexual offenses.
DUI charges.
Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible after their arrest.
Expectations for Veterans Track Participants
Veterans enrolled in the program must commit to sobriety and meet the following requirements:
Attend weekly court sessions.
Meet weekly with a probation officer and case manager.
Participate in prescribed treatment sessions.
Attend 12-step meetings.
Submit to frequent, random drug testing.
Maintain regular employment.
Pay court costs, restitution, and child support.
Violations may result in sanctions such as essays, community service, or incarceration. Program compliance and achievements are rewarded with praise, small tokens, gift cards, or fee reductions.
Graduating from Veterans Track
The program requires a minimum commitment of 12 months, though it may take longer depending on compliance. To graduate, participants must:
Obtain a high school diploma or GED.
Maintain full-time employment.
Secure adequate housing.
Complete treatment and all program phases.
Remain drug, alcohol, and arrest-free for six months prior to graduation.
Pay all court costs, fines, restitution, and program fees.
Benefits of Successful Completion
Graduates of the Luzerne County Veterans Track will have their charges dismissed. Additionally, misdemeanor charges can be expunged after one year of remaining drug- and arrest-free, while felony charges may be expunged after three years.
Final Thoughts
The Luzerne County Veterans Track is a transformative opportunity for veterans to address underlying issues, rebuild their lives, and rejoin their communities as productive citizens. By focusing on rehabilitation and accountability, this program honors the service of our veterans while providing them with a second chance.
If you or someone you know is a veteran facing legal challenges, consider exploring the Veterans Track as a path to recovery and renewal.