Henderson, Nev. – Chief Judge Mark Stevens and the Henderson Municipal Court announce the first graduation ceremony for the Veterans Court program. Veterans Court is an alternative sentencing program adopted by Judge Stevens for military veterans charged with misdemeanor crimes while struggling to readjust to civilian life.

The ceremony will be held March 22 at 2 p.m. in the Henderson Municipal Court, Department 1. This is the first defendant to graduate from the program since its inception in June 2011.

Judge Stevens adopted Veterans Court in Henderson after the Nevada Legislature authorized the establishment of this specialty court in 2009. He himself is a military veteran and wanted to help his fellow veterans who needed a little help to get back on track. Most participants are first-time offenders of misdemeanor crimes and have issues related to their service.

Veterans Court focuses on these veterans underlying issues and provides access to resources which enable successful compliance with the Court’s orders. “We work with defendants who are new to the court system to rehabilitate and hopefully prevent any further criminal activity on their part,” said Judge Stevens. “These veterans come back home and have a tough time adjusting to life outside of the military. Through my own service and experience I understand some of their challenges and work closely with a team of dedicated professionals to get them the help they need.”

Graduates must successfully complete the program depending on any or all of the following:  their treatment needs; court ordered counseling; Veterans Affairs recommended counseling, such as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder counseling; mental health counseling; as well as drug or alcohol addiction counseling. The veteran may also be required to submit to random drug and alcohol testing, be subject to ongoing monitoring of any possible additional criminal activity, community service and work program under the supervision of the city of Henderson Alternative Sentencing department.

Since the program’s inception, approximately 15 participants have enrolled in the yearlong program. The first graduate accelerated his program due to a scheduled deployment. All participants have remained out of the Henderson criminal justice system and are progressing toward completion.

For additional information on partnering with the Veterans Court program, please contact Luanne Baker (702) 267-3350.

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About City of Henderson: Incorporated in 1953, Henderson is Nevada’s second largest city with more than 268,000 residents. Henderson is a premier city, nationally recognized for its stunning parks, trails, master-planned communities and outstanding quality of life. Recognized as one of America’s Best Cities (Business Week), the Second Safest City in America (Forbes), and twice named to MONEY magazine’s list of “Best Places to Live” in America, Henderson is a progressive and vibrant city committed to maintaining premier amenities and services for all who chose to live and work in Henderson…a place to call home.