As Americans, we owe a tremendous debt to our veterans for our liberty and safety. We need to keep in mind that many veterans returning home from combat relive the devastating effects of war each day, and many suffer major psychological illnesses.
One in four veterans returns from the warfront with mental illness such as PTSD, addiction, and depression. Half of these vets are left untreated and often find themselves in conflict with the law. In New York State alone, it is estimated that there are at least 27,000 veterans who suffer from mental illness.
As Americans, we owe a tremendous debt to our veterans for our liberty and safety. We need to keep in mind that many veterans returning home from combat relive the devastating effects of war each day, and many suffer major psychological illnesses.
One in four veterans returns from the warfront with mental illness such as PTSD, addiction, and depression. Half of these vets are left untreated and often find themselves in conflict with the law. In New York State alone, it is estimated that there are at least 27,000 veterans who suffer from mental illness.
A proposed bill before the New York State Legislature, the Justice for Our Veterans Act, if enacted into law, will ensure that veterans suffering from mental illness that end up in the criminal justice system get the treatment they need. The Act would create new procedures in the criminal justice system to consider whether mental illness as a result of military service played a role in the commission of a crime committed by a veteran. Veterans would undergo a treatment program, which if successful, would result in the charges being reduced or dropped.
The bill would not apply to all crimes. Veterans accused of murder in the first and second degrees, kidnapping, arson, and sex offenses would not be eligible to participate. Those convicted of crimes involving domestic violence would also not have such charges immediately dropped, but would be required to undergo a period of probation.
Seventeen counties in New York, including Suffolk County, currently have designated Veterans Treatment courts dealing with substance abuse, low level misdemeanors, some felonies, and mental health issues. Veteran advocates have found these courts highly successful in rehabilitating veterans and providing them with the treatment they need. Our veterans deserve our respect and need our help.
The New York State Senate is expected to vote on the bill this month.
If you are a veteran who has been convicted of a crime, contact an experienced criminal defense attorney to discuss your rights and legal options. Call the criminal defense attorneys at the Law Office of McGuire & Pelaez, P.C. today at (631) 348-1702.
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