From Council on Criminal Justice:
Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen has signed landmark legislation that creates alternatives to prosecution and incarceration for military veterans, ensuring they receive treatment for PTSD and other service-related conditions that drive their criminal behavior.
The governor’s action makes Nebraska the first state to adopt legislation based on a policy framework from the Veterans Justice Commission, a national panel led by former U.S. Defense Secretaries Chuck Hagel and Leon Panetta. The Council on Criminal Justice launched the 15-member commission of senior military and criminal justice leaders to examine why so many veterans land in prison and jail and develop solutions.
Under the new law, veterans who demonstrate that a service-related condition contributed to their offense can be diverted from prosecution by a judge. Those eligible will instead be required to complete a structured program combining supervision with individualized treatment for PTSD, traumatic brain injury, or other conditions. Only certain crimes currently eligible for probation will be considered for diversion, and victims will have the opportunity to address the court. Continue reading >>>
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