The Bernalillo County Metropolitan Court proudly announces the milestone graduation of the 200th participant from its Community Veterans Court.

The court honored the graduate during a ceremony on September 11^th, and participants, mentors, and supporters gathered to recognize this achievement.

Established in 2016, the Community Veterans Court serves veterans who have entered the criminal justice system on varying misdemeanor charges, but similar struggles. The Specialty Court works to improve public safety by providing a judicially-supervised program that addresses substance use and behavioral health disorders with the goal of returning veterans and service members to the community as healthy, law-abiding individuals.

“The Community Veterans Court is more than a program – it’s a lifeline,” said Judge Felicia Blea-Rivera, who presides over the Specialty Court. “Reaching our 200th graduate reflects the dedication of so many who’ve shaped this program to ensure that those who’ve served our country receive the support they need to get back on the path of stability and success.”

Participants meet with Judge Blea-Rivera for status hearings at least once per month, undergo frequent and random drug and alcohol testing, report to an assigned probation officer, engage in treatment, and must satisfy other conditions of the Court. One of the most-vital components in each participant’s recovery is the camaraderie that is built between the program’s volunteer veteran mentors and participants.

Participation in the program is voluntary, and successful completion usually takes between six to 12 months, based on individual needs. There are two program tracks; a diversionary track for participants who are considered low-risk and a post-plea track for those with greater needs. The program is open to those who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces, the corresponding reserve branches or the National Guard.

Treatment services for substance use disorder or mental illness, such as PTSD, are obtained primarily from the Veterans Administration Hospital or local Veterans Clinic. 

“The Community Veterans Court continues to demonstrate the positive impact of treatment courts in reducing recidivism, strengthening families, and building safer communities. Each graduate’s success story represents a step forward not only for the veteran but for the community as a whole,” added Judge Blea-Rivera.