That’s why Problem Solving Courts matter so much. They’re not just another program; they’re the most effective justice intervention we’ve ever had in this
, judges see people whose criminal behavior is driven by untreated substance use or mental health challenges. And we all know what happens if those needs go unaddressed: individuals end up cycling in and out of the justice system, putting pressure on law enforcement, our courts, and taxpayers.
That’s why Problem Solving Courts matter so much. They’re not just another program; they’re the most effective justice intervention we’ve ever had in this country.based treatment and consistent judicial supervision. And the impact reaches far beyond lowering crime. Our Problem Solving Courts save lives.
They strengthen families. They help people find stable housing, steady employment, and a future they never thought possible. They also free law enforcement to focus on keeping our communities safe. May is National Treatment Court Month, which makes it the perfect time to highlight the incredible work these courts are doing across New York.
As the Statewide Coordinating Judge for Problem Solving Courts, I have the privilege of visiting court sessions throughout the state. My favorite part of those visits, without question, is attending graduation ceremonies. Last year, during a visit to the Monroe County Veterans Treatment Court, I had the chance to hear a powerful speech from one of the court’s graduates, Ricky Heffner. During the pandemic, I suffered the unexpected back-to-back loss of three of my closest friends.
I’d known them for 20 years. Literally, they were the first real friends I’d allowed myself after leaving service. The first was a crusty Vietnam Vet with multiple debilitating physical injuries, compliments of the War, who nevertheless learned to embrace life and count every day as a blessing.
Then there was a Gold Star Dad, who was forever changed by, and continually struggled with the loss of his son. His wonderful wife followed six months later. I was devastated. Losing these very special people put me in a very dark place.
I applied copious amounts of alcohol just to turn off the noise in my head. I tried to drown my sorrows, as well as my anger, because COVID prevented me from visiting any of them during their illnesses, attending their funerals, or even just saying goodbye in person. My journey to Vet Court began with my third arrest for DWI on 8 December 2021, my wife’s birthday.
As I was mulling over exactly what I’d gotten myself into, I concluded that, no doubt, this time, I would be sentenced to time behind bars. Fortunately, God had a different plan for me, and I was given a gift: Veterans Court. Throughout the program, I was impressed with the multifaceted level of support in court and the positive attitude of everyone I encountered there. It was nothing like I expected.
At my initial appearance in Vet Court, I first heard this preamble from the judge: “This is what I expect from you:”Rule 3: Surrender to the process and do as you are instructed! Graduating Veterans Court on 1 May 2023, I couldn’t have felt more grounded. Yet, my journey through Vet Court was never meant to end because I’d graduated.
I was so energized and motivated by the program, especially their phenomenal team, that I knew I had to be part of it, to help other vets succeed and move on to happy, healthy, productive lives, just as I had done. It is a blessing to be part of this wonderful, caring group, as much as knowing I now have the ability to help others, I am the luckiest man in the world, and I’ve barely gotten started!
Ricky’s experience is just one of so many stories that show how deeply Problem Solving Courts can change lives. The ripple effects are remarkable, not just in cost savings, but in the way these courts help rebuild communities. We see real progress in education, employment, housing stability, financial wellness, and family reunification. Those aren’t just statistics; they’re the building blocks of healthier, stronger communities.
Problem Solving Courts are our most effective approach at the intersection of addiction, mental health, and justice involvement. By celebrating our successes and expanding access to Problem Solving Courts, we give more people the chance to rebuild their lives and strengthen the communities they call home. Each participant’s progress creates a small but meaningful ripple, one that reaches their families, their neighbors, and ultimately their wider community.
And when those ripples multiply and move together, they form a wave strong enough to carry hope and progress across our entire state. NYS Gaming Board approves full casino licenses for all three active bids in Queens and Bronx‘We’ve been winning’: Sunset Park labor town hall highlights workers’ rightsFeathers, beads and big Hearts: Jody Morlock’s masked ball in the East Village is a wild night for animalsTimes Square stabbing: Three suspects wanted for murdering man after argument, cops say
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