The Stevens County Prosecutor’s Office is happy to announce the development of a program of handling the prosecution of veterans who commit criminal law violations in ways that make allowances for the problems some veterans have making adjustments to civilian life.

Through discussions with former Commissioner Fred Arnow and Judge Vance Peterson of Spokane, we recognized the need in our county to address the root causes of problems facing veterans. On March 23, 2012, the Stevens County Prosecutor’s Office held an initial meeting with local veterans groups, rural resources and interested members of the community. Local attorneys Gary Weber, Ron Collins, Jean Conger, Mike Clay, Jim Irwin, and others members of the local bar association were in attendance.

This program involves the assignment of a mentor to a qualifying veteran. The mentor assists the veteran in completing the requirements of the program and provides accountability and support. The veteran is required to attend monthly forum meetings in Spokane and participate in recommended treatment programs that are designed to help the veteran with the problems he or she faces.  The forum also aids the veteran with obtaining the services to which they are entitled and assists the veteran with other financial and legal issues they may face.  After completing the program, the veteran will be better equipped to handle the issues that arise in more productive and acceptable ways. The Spokane Veterans Hospital is supporting the program.

Last week the final pieces of this project were put in place.   Approximately 25 people, including several mentors, attended a mentor-training program conducted by the local Veteran’s mentor program facilitator. A representative from our office along with local attorneys Ron Colins, Mike Clay, and Gary Weber were in attendance. Several persons spoke to express their support for the establishment of the Veterans Program.

Stevens County has an abundance of veterans who have risked their lives defending our country and our liberty and freedom. I am proud to help establish a program in Stevens County to aid and sustain the veterans who have risked so much for all of us. It is the least we can do to support those who have given such valuable service.

Tim Rasmussen