Minnesota's 3rd Judicial District is set to commemorate the fifth anniversary of its Veterans Treatment Court. The event will take place at Soldiers Field Memorial on Friday, September 20, at 3 p.m. Former First District Congressman Tim Penny is scheduled to deliver remarks during the celebration.
The Veterans Treatment Court has made a significant impact over the past five years, assisting 90 veterans facing legal challenges. Monty Vikdal, coordinator for the court, expressed gratitude: “In just five years, our Veterans Treatment Court has helped 90 veterans who were in legal trouble,” said Vikdal. “So we wanted to take this opportunity to celebrate them and thank everyone who has been a part of this success.”
This court offers a voluntary program lasting between 15 to 18 months. A judge leads a team of professionals to provide various services such as financial assistance, counseling for chemical dependency and mental health issues, employment training, and temporary housing. Participants are expected to comply with program requirements and may face removal if they reoffend.
Judge Ross Leuning emphasized the importance of supporting veterans post-conflict: "It is important to note that after every major war in our nation's history, we have experienced a significant increase in criminal involvement by our returning veterans as they struggle with their combat experiences and attempt to reintegrate into civilian life."
A key component of the program involves pairing participants with veteran mentors who offer guidance and support throughout the process. These volunteers play an essential role in aiding justice-involved veterans toward success. Vikdal noted their contribution: “These volunteers are foundational to the program and play a valuable role in both our court system and the community,” he says.
Judge Leuning was instrumental in establishing the Veterans Treatment Court alongside Waseca County Probation Officer Brandon Servantez. The court now serves all eleven counties within the district through partnerships with entities like the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Health Care networks and several county attorneys’ offices.
The court aims not only to assist veterans with addiction or mental health issues but also prevent recidivism by addressing underlying problems early on. Judge Leuning remarked on this proactive approach: “One of the first public signs that a veteran is struggling is an appearance in our courts,” he said.
For further details about the upcoming anniversary celebration, interested parties can contact Monty Vikdal via email at monty.vikdal@co.freeborn.mn.us.