News  Essex County Veterans Treatment Court Celebrates Clients Success at Graduation Ceremony

The Essex County Veterans Treatment Court celebrated the graduation of two participants on November 2nd at The Lawrence District Court. Judge Kevin Gaffney presided over the graduation ceremony which drew a large audience of the graduates' friends and family as well as court employees. 

The Essex County Veterans Treatment Court (VTC) program provides close supervision, guidance, and support to veterans who have found themselves involved in the criminal legal system. The VTC team is comprised of judges, probation officers, representatives from the Veterans Affairs Office, local law enforcement, defense attorneys, and the District Attorney’s office who all work collaboratively to provide veterans services and supports to address and treat underlying substance use and mental health issues. 

"The overall goal of the program is to identify, address, and treat any issues a veteran may struggle with to promote positive change and success in their lives moving forward," said Ashley Leonard, Lawrence District Court Probation Officer.