Lee County Veterans Treatment Court

The Twentieth Judicial Circuit runs veterans treatment courts in Lee, Charlotte and Collier Counties under section 394.47891 of the Florida Statutes; see the Florida entry. In Lee County, Judge Josephine Gagliardi presides, usually on Tuesdays at 1:30 p.m. in Courtroom 5B of the Lee County Justice Center, 1700 Monroe Street, Fort Myers. Who. Anyone who served in the U.S. military, a current or former Defense contractor, or a former member of an allied military, with a substance use disorder, military-related mental illness, mild traumatic brain injury or an eligible severe and persistent mental illness, and a clear link between the diagnosis and the offense. Misdemeanors and felonies are taken at the court's discretion on the State Attorney's recommendation. Service is established by a DD-214, and the circuit says participants "if eligible, will receive services through the Veterans Administration Healthcare benefits", after screening by VA's Veterans Justice Outreach coordinator. The circuit does not say what happens to a veteran VA will not treat. Conditions the statute does not set. A residence requirement, "generally 30 days in Lee County prior to application", unless the case qualifies for transfer under the Florida Problem Solving Court Transfer Guide; a guilty or no contest plea to each charge, unless the State Attorney defers them; and competence to proceed. Cost. Participants pay full restitution, all court costs, fines and fees, and may pay for treatment sessions and drug tests, and must certify they can meet these obligations before acceptance. In a diversion case the charges are dismissed on completion. Referrals: Lee County Criminal Division and Probation, 239-533-9199, or the referral form; the signed release forms go to [email protected]. Volunteer veteran mentors attend every session.