Understanding the Injustice
Veterans face significant challenges both during and after their service, and unfortunately, many find themselves on the wrong side of the law.
In 2011, around 181,500 veterans were incarcerated.
Nearly half of these men and women reported being diagnosed with a mental disorder.
1 in 3 veterans have been arrested at least once.
The Council on Criminal Justice’s Veterans Justice Commission says “we still don’t have reliable, up-to-date national totals because agencies don’t consistently identify vets at arrest/booking”. CCJ): Research shows recent-era veterans are about 2× as likely to be incarcerated as non-veterans
The Push for Criminal Justice Reform
There’s a growing call for criminal justice reform that recognizes the unique struggles of veterans. Research from the Veterans Justice Commission indicates that about 1 in 3 veterans have been arrested at least once. This alarming figure highlights the urgent need for policies that address not just punishment, but rehabilitation. By fostering understanding of mental health, we can transform how society assists veterans, ensuring they receive the help they rightly deserve.
VA Benefits and Support Structures
Despite the challenges, support structures are in place aimed at aiding these veterans. Programs related to VA benefits are designed to provide necessary resources for rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Moreover, it’s estimated that approximately 10% of people on U.S. death row are veterans. This statistic alone should reignite discussions around veteran assistance in the criminal justice system. By simplifying the process for veterans accessing VA benefits, we can play a significant role in reducing recidivism and promoting healing.
The Council on Criminal Justice’s Veterans Justice Commission says “we still don’t have reliable, up-to-date national totals because agencies don’t consistently identify vets at arrest/booking”.
CCJ research shows recent-era veterans are about 2x as likely to be incarcerated as non-veterans.
VA Benefits and Support Structures
Despite the challenges, support structures are in place aimed at aiding these veterans. Programs related to VA benefits are designed to provide necessary resources for rehabilitation and reintegration into society. Moreover, it’s estimated that approximately 10% of people on U.S. death row are veterans. This statistic alone should reignite discussions around veteran assistance in the criminal justice system. By simplifying the process for veterans accessing VA benefits, we can play a significant role in reducing recidivism and promoting healing.