The Ramsey County Veterans Treatment Court is marking its 10-year anniversary with a graduation ceremony at the Ramsey County Courthouse on Friday, Feb. 23. The event celebrates the court's decade-long efforts to enhance public safety and accountability among veterans through specialized support services.
Chief Judge Leonardo Castro of Ramsey County praised the initiative, stating, “This truly is a shining moment. The success of Ramsey County’s treatment court is a testament to the collective collaboration of myriad partner organizations and the hard work of the veterans who participate.”
Since its inception in 2013, the court has worked with various partners to connect eligible veterans charged with crimes to necessary services addressing issues related to their military service. These partners include local government offices and community organizations such as Ramsey County Veterans Services, Community Corrections, Social Services, and others.
Judge Nicole Starr highlighted the program's impact by saying, “It’s an incredible program that changes lives. This is a collaborative approach to help veterans overcome obstacles that can seem insurmountable—together, we work to ensure that each veteran is safe, sober, and free."
The program requires strict adherence from participants; those who fail to comply or reoffend may be removed. To date, 66 veterans have graduated from this program.
Paul Harris, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and graduate of the program after receiving a DWI charge, shared his experience: “You have to forgive yourself, and the court helped me immensely in that area,” he said. Harris credits his participation for helping him achieve sobriety.
Veteran-volunteer mentors play an essential role in supporting participants like Harris. Trista Martinson, Chair of the Ramsey County Board and former active-duty veteran, stated: “Mentors have a shared bond of service that gives them a unique understanding of military-related trauma and credibility to act as battle buddies."
Ramsey County Veterans Services continues seeking additional veteran mentors and offers resources for those interested in volunteering.