05/08/2026
Treatment Courts Reduce Crime, Save Lives, and Strengthen Communities
By Patricia Jared, Admissions Liaison, 26th VTC
Jackson, TN — Each day in courtrooms across Tennessee, judges encounter individuals whose criminal behavior is driven by untreated substance use and mental health disorders. Without addressing these underlying issues, many continue cycling through the justice system—placing strain on law enforcement, courts, and taxpayers.
Treatment courts offer one of the most effective solutions to break this cycle.
These specialized courts combine close judicial oversight and accountability with evidence-based treatment for substance use and mental health disorders. The results go far beyond reducing crime—treatment courts help individuals rebuild their lives, strengthen families, improve employment and housing stability, and enhance overall community safety.
May is National Treatment Court Month, an opportunity to highlight the impact of these programs in communities like ours. “Treatment courts are about accountability, but they’re also about opportunity,” said Patricia Jared, Admissions Liaison for the 26th Judicial District Veterans Treatment Court. “When we address the root causes of behavior, we see real, lasting change.”
One local participant entered treatment court after years of struggling with addiction and repeated arrests. Facing a lengthy prison sentence, he chose to enter the program. Through intensive treatment, regular supervision, and support from the court team, he secured stable housing, found employment, and reconnected with his family. Today, he is working in the recovery field and pursuing certification as a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist.
Stories like his are not unique. Research shows treatment courts reduce crime by an average of 58% and save more than $6,000 per participant*. Participants also see improvements in education, employment, housing stability, and family reunification.
This year, the 26th Judicial District Veterans Treatment Court, presided over by Judge Kyle Atkins, was honored with the Justice-Involved Advocacy Agency Award at Tennessee’s 2026 Day of Hope Prayer Breakfast in recognition of its impact on the lives of local veterans. The program is supported by a dedicated team, including Program Director Carol Copley, Admissions Liaison Patricia Jared, Case Manager Carla Croom, and Veterans Justice Outreach Coordinator Carmen Gray.
As communities continue to seek effective responses to substance use and mental health challenges, treatment courts remain a proven, cost-effective approach that benefits individuals, families, and public safety alike.
If you have a friend or family member who served in the military and is currently incarcerated or has a pending criminal case in Madison, Henderson, or Chester counties, please encourage them to contact our office at 731-225-0641 to learn more about the Veterans Treatment Court program.
For more information, please visit:
https://www.madisoncountytn.gov/696/Veterans-Treatment-Court
