Littleton Elks Volunteer with Veterans Treatment Courts

Veterans Treatment Courts are specialized court programs that provide justice-involved veterans with access to treatment, mentorship, and support instead of traditional prosecution and incarceration. These courts focus on rehabilitation, accountability, and helping veterans rebuild their lives. The Littleton Elks Lodge has three veterans on one of these courts to help in doing just that.

According to the National Association of Drug Court Professionals (NADCP) and Justice for Vets, as of 2024, there are about 600 Veterans Treatment Courts operating across the United States with seven in Colorado.

Littleton Elks members Bob Keyser, Landry (LT) Terry, and Alan McArthur all serve on one of these courts. The main things court volunteers do include providing basic needs, veteran mentorship, emergency financial aid, recognition, and building community connections.

“VTCs reduce repeat offenses and lower incaceration rates for veterans,” Bob said. “In Colorado, VTCs have demonstrated significantly lower recidivism rates compared to traditional criminal courts. For instance, the VTC in Arapahoe County boasts a recidivism rate of just 4% since its inception in 2013, a stark contrast to the general population rate of up to 70%.”

According to an article in the Denver Gazette, Veterans Trauma Court is not for those who wish to fight their charges, but those who want to accept responsibility and get help with the trauma or substance abuse that led them into the criminal justice system.

The Veterans Trauma Court is a state- and grant-funded program that provides an alternative to incarceration for US military veterans and active-duty military personnel, according to the website.

Thank you Bob, LT, Alan, and others who help support our veterans and active duty personnel!