August 21, 2024 – Commencement of Veterans Court
Monroe County Veterans Court signaled the importance of mentorship and peer support last week on Wednesday, a ceremony in the courtroom of Judge Dwaine Thomas commencing the recovery of five justice-involved military veterans.
“What makes our program different?” Thomas asked, opening proceedings. “We really focus on mentors and relationships. Treatments are an important part.”
At right, Justin Davis receives a special dog tag pressed in Madisonville, its message “You’re Worth It” reminds
veterans who have fought for their country that they are worth fighting for as well. Presenting is Vietnam Purple Heart Army Veterans and Mentor Don Davis.
Veterans Court is a growing program that for almost a decade has assisted veterans charged with a crime in Monroe and surroundings counties. It held its second graduation ceremony for the year this month.
Thomas said it was a way to repay a “debt of honor” owed to the men and women who have served their country.
At first, JIVs – justice-involved veterans – are given the choice to participate in Veterans Court in lieu of criminal punishment. If they accept, JIVs are paired with a mentor from Vet to Vet Tennessee.
Mentors are all former members of the military. Some have been through veterans’ court, though not all. Each is dedicated to helping their brothers and sisters.
Monroe County Veterans Court, August Commencement, mentors, graduates, therapists, supporters, and officials in the courtroom of judge Dwaine Thomas.
Vet to Vet Tennessee Vice President and mentor coordinator Ted Carter said JIVs were required to check in weekly for a status report. The path forward for each individual was unique. It may require therapy, medication, or simply encouragement and guidance.
It’s important to point out that not all JIVs encounter the criminal justice system due to substance misuse. The focus on the day of their commencement from Veterans Court is centered on a positive outcome than a negative beginning.
To achieve that, Vet to Vet Tennessee and its mentors have formed and nurtured partnerships with McNabb Military Services Center and the Department of Veterans Affairs, both viable options for effective treatment and intervention.
From left, Vet to Vet Tennessee mentor Jamie Sands, Army vet grad Tyler Ray, Beverly Powell, Judge Dwaine Thomas.
Thomas told the court success in helping a JIV depended on the accountability that comes with the mentorship, whether it’s a “kick in the pants, a cheerleader to keep you going, or just having someone there.”
The ongoing support of family is very important to the program,” he said to the partners, parents, and friends in attendance. “We all fall. It’s whether you get yourself up or lay there.”
One of the goals of Veterans Court is to create momentum for positive change in the lives of its participants. To make whole what has been broken or damaged. When a JIV is ready – generally six months in the Veterans Court program or longer – he or she seeks clemency from the court.
In the August commencement ceremony, three of the five JIVs were from Monroe County. Thomas expunged the cases in his jurisdiction. He recommended neighboring judges to do the same in counties where no such thing a Veterans Court exists.
“I want to thank everyone for their service,” Thomas said. “Your cases have been dismissed.”
Recognized were:
Tyler Ray, US Army, mentor Jamie Sands, USMC. Rhea County.
William “Heath” Melton, USMC, mentor Michael McGrail, USMC. Monroe County.
Justin Davis, US Army, mentor JD Phillips, US Air Force. Monroe County.
Kyle Smith, USMC, mentor Lee Bacon, US Army. Monroe County.
Timothy “Scott” Smith, US Army, mentor Ted Carter, US Air Force. Bradley County.
Before adjournment, recognition and thanks were given to officials, agencies, and supports of the Veterans Court, including Veterans Service Officer Andy Boyd, court clerk Dewayna Martin, Mayor Mitch Ingram, Vie Mayor Stacy Chambers, judge’s assistant Beverly Powell, city police and county sheriff departments, the McNabb Military Services Center, Vet to Vet Tennessee mentors.
“Everyone has continued to stay involved,” Thomas said. “And that’s what keeps this program going.”
The Monroe County Buzz. August 29, 2024. Lucas Boring
My brother is a 22 year Army Veteran with multiple deployments in Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan. He came home in October 2021 and in March 2022 was wrongly convicted of a crime. He received a very harsh sentence and his paid attorney was incompetent for his defense. He deserves a second chance, but how?