Sussex County’s veteran treatment program celebrates 5th year

GEORGETOWN, Del. – It was a morning full of tears, hugs, and most of all appreciation for the endless support everyone inside the Sussex County Superior Courthouse has given to watch veterans turn their lives around.

“I couldn’t have done it without them. They’re great people,” said veteran William Via.

On Thursday, members involved with Sussex County’s Veteran Treatment Court Program celebrated the 5th year that the program has been up and running. Giving veterans who’ve been charged with crimes the opportunity to get their lives back on track instead of being sent straight to prison.

“I didn’t really have self-esteem. Each month it just got better and better,” said veteran Treena Kunkel.

“For veterans who have done so much to support their country, it’s so important that we support them in their time of need,” said mentor Patti Trump.

Officials say veterans who successfully complete this year-long treatment program get all charges against them dropped.

“I got a clean slate and I can start over and everything is good and I’ve been good for the last five years,” said veteran Lynn Yarzinsky.

“I have two beautiful daughters and a beautiful wife. And I almost left all of that for nothing,” said Via.

And that support system never goes away even after they complete the program.

“I can reach out to them, and they respond. They don’t let you sit. They don’t leave you behind. They’re here for you,” said Via.

And while this program has helped dozens of veterans so far, program officials say they’ve still got more lives to change.

“With our help and the support of everyone else that is in the community hopefully we can give them another chance,” said Trump.

Officials add that in the five years that this program has been up and running they have not had one veteran that has reoffended. And if you would like to learn more about the veteran’s treatment program and how you can get involved click here.