Jonesboro, AR – (Contributed) – Sept. 25, 2025 – The Craighead County Veterans Treatment Court (VTC) celebrated two milestones on Thursday: graduating its largest class to date with six participants and honoring two graduates who completed the program in record time.
Judge Scott Ellington presided over the ceremony in a full courtroom at the Craighead County Courthouse, recognizing the dedication and achievements of the graduates.
Established in 2015, the Veterans Treatment Court is one of only 12 veteran-specific specialty courts in Arkansas, serving the entire 2nd Judicial District. The program is a voluntary, 14- to 18-month, multi-phase intervention initiative designed for veterans involved in the criminal justice system due to unmanaged substance use or mental health disorders.
Through a collaborative approach, the Veterans Treatment Court connects participants to treatment and benefits they have earned, while holding them accountable through frequent court appearances, random drug and alcohol testing, counseling, and intensive community supervision. The program not only transforms lives and families but also saves taxpayer dollars by reducing recidivism and promoting long-term stability.
The Craighead County Veterans Treatment Court is funded through grant allocations within the County’s annual budget. Key partners include the 2nd Judicial District Circuit Court, the 2nd Judicial Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs, Arisa Health, NEA Divine Intervention, Inc., and the Arkansas State University Beck Center for Veterans.
For more information, contact Specialty Court coordinator BayLee Burns at 870-972-4779.
