Two Marines Mark New Beginnings at Kane County Veterans Treatment Court Graduation
Two U.S. Marines, Chris and Ryan, turned a page in their lives this month as they graduated from the Kane County Veterans Treatment Court—a rigorous program designed to support veterans struggling with substance abuse and mental health challenges.
The courtroom was filled with family, friends and fellow veterans as the men were honored for their perseverance and achievements.
Chris was recognized for his extraordinary commitment to service, completing more than 400 hours of community work, much of it alongside local veterans’ organizations. Facing a misdemeanor charge, Ryan had other legal avenues available to avoid conviction, but instead chose to enter the demanding Veterans Treatment Court program. His choice, praised by his mentor and Judge Christine Downs, who oversees the specialty court, was explained as more than clearing his record—it was about finding the support and guidance he needed to recover from substance abuse and chart a healthier future.
As part of the ceremony, Chris and Ryan each received a quilt from the Illinois Quilts of Valor, a challenge coin, and a recognition pin from the Kane County Veterans Assistance Commission. The most meaningful moment came when a Kane County judge formally dismissed their cases, marking the start of a new chapter. 
Established in 2018, the 16th Judicial Circuit’s Veterans Treatment Court is a voluntary, problem-solving court designed for veterans whose military service–related challenges, such as PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, or substance abuse, contributed to criminal charges. The court has seen 10 graduates since its inception.
The program combines court supervision with individualized services, including mental health counseling, substance use treatment, trauma support, employment assistance, and more. Participants plead guilty and commit to strict requirements—regular court appearances, treatment sessions, probation check-ins, and random drug testing. Sentencing is deferred, and successful completion may result in charges being dismissed, offering veterans a second chance.
The Veterans Court Team is made up of an interdisciplinary group, including the Judge, State’s Attorney, Public Defender or defense attorney, Program Coordinator, Probation Officer, and Veterans Justice Outreach Specialist. It is one of four specialty courts in Kane County, alongside Adult Drug Court, DUI Court, and Treatment Alternative Court.
For more information about Kane County’s specialty courts, visit Kane County Specialty Courts. To learn more about veterans’ services, go to the Kane County Veterans Assistance Commission.
