Veterans Court Reaches into Bradley, McMinn County
On May 20, 2026, Monroe County Veterans Court reached an important milestone in its mission to serve veterans in the criminal justice system by expanding its unique recovery program into neighboring counties. “All grads are from outside the county,” Thomas said. “That means the program is working.”
Veterans Court was established by Vet to Vet Tennessee more than a decade ago. It has evolved from its founding in Monroe County and now operates in seven East Tennessee jurisdictions. “We are the hub, and we have many spokes,” Thomas said.
Last month, out of six graduates, four graduated from Bradley, while two were from McMinn County courts. McMinn County has participated in the Veterans Court since 2015, under the leadership of Judge R. Wylie Richardson.
Upon completion of the Monroe County Veterans Court program, Thomas recommends that neighboring judges expunge charges, enabling veterans to live healthier lives and pursue recovery rather than being sentenced.
To do that, justice-involved veterans are mentored by Vet to Vet Tennessee volunteers. Mentors and the JIV’s care provider(s) recommend JIVs to Thomas for graduation after they have worked to overcome behaviors that led to arrest. There is no set time limit. Vet to Vet Tennessee approaches each participant as an individual.
In addition to mentors, JIVs connect with McNabb Military Center and the Department of Veterans Affairs therapists when appropriate. McNabb Military Services Center has been a part of the program for over ten years and has provided free counseling to veterans and their families. Work on that front encourages JIVs to grow through challenges such as post-traumatic stress and chemical dependency.
May graduates were:
Stephen Holder, Navy, Bradley County, mentor Rob Myers
Jimmy Armstrong, Air Force, Bradley County, mentor Tyler Moore
Scott McMinn, Navy, McMinn County, mentor Bob Goguen,
Jacob Truck, Marine Corps, McMinn County, mentor Isaac Braun.
Howard Brock, Navy, Bradley County, mentor JD Phillips
Enis Disney, Navy, Bradley County, mentor Lee Bacon
Graduates were not only awarded judicial expungement; each also received a unique Vet to Vet Tennessee dog tag (made on a WWII dog tag machine by Andy Boyd, Monroe County VSO), a challenge coin, and a certificate recognizing their personal growth and commitment to recovery.
Graduates were also allowed to describe their experiences.
Stephen Holder said he would continue to connect with McNabb's therapist, Travis Miller, after Veterans Court concluded; Miller’s veteran-specific services are a great benefit to rehabilitation.
“When I got into trouble and went down a dark path, I lost both my parents,” JIV Scott McMinn said. “I joined the program, and it helped tremendously. Travis brought out things I didn’t want to talk to anyone about.”
Howard Brock said Veterans Court “got things moving in the right direction,” and the brotherhood he experienced through Vet to Vet Tennessee mentorship reminded him of his military days, a sense of camaraderie missing from civilian life.
Enis Disney’s wife thanked the court for helping her husband. “He’s a changed man,” she said. “Travis did so much for me, taught me how to deal with and cope with problems,” Enis said. With support at home, Travis and Lee, it’s just amazing.”
“I think you all rescued me,” he said. “I think you rescued yourself,” Thomas said.
Usually humble in his role overseeing the court, Thomas reminded JIVs of who was responsible for their successes and failures. The hard personal work required to change the course of life falls squarely on JIVs' shoulders. Mentors guide them on the path, hold them accountable, offer encouragement, and share similar experiences and personal success stories.
And there is a large group of unseen supporters who cheer for veterans and keep the court running.
Thomas recognized Monroe County Mayor Mitch Ingram and Veterans Service Officer Andy Boyd - “one of the best VSOs in Tennessee.” He thanked the Monroe County Board of Commissioners for its unwavering support, therapist Travis Miller - “the man on the ground,” and the family members of JIVS - “it’s not a solo trip” - who choose to help and give effort and care to the people they love.
“And the mentors,” Judge Thomas said, “the program doesn’t work without you.”
