12-14-S IN RE: COUNTY COURT - MISDEMEANOR VETERANS’ TREATMENT COURT - ORDERED 5/18/2012 BY ALAN. A. DICKEY
EXCERPT: “WHEREAS, specialized courts can enhance the expediency, effectiveness and quality of judicial administration; WHEREAS, it is essential that a new strategy be implemented to isolate and focus upon individuals arrested for misdemeanor offenses who are veterans who have been diagnosed with a service connected behavioral health issue, in view of the unique nature of behavioral health issues related to veterans, and the need for appropriate treatment in an environment conducive to wellness and not punishment, as well as the continuing necessity to insure the protection of the public; WHEREAS, there is a recognized need to bring defendants qualified to participate in the Veterans’ Treatment Court before a judge assigned to expeditiously and efficiently move veterans with service connected behavioral health issues from an overcrowded jail system into veteran treatment programs without compromising the safety of the public; and
WHEREAS, a centralized Veterans’ Treatment Court that utilizes available Veteran Administration and Veteran Mentor Volunteer resources and support systems will increase the efficiency of the criminal court system in this circuit and permit better access to a continuing shrinkage of state and local resources and services; NOW THEREFORE, by authority vested in me as Chief Judge and pursuant to the Florida Rules of Judicial Administration, it is ORDERED: (Open AO for more information.)”
Additional Information: