For the second time, the Supreme Court of Ohio has given final certification to Van Wert Municipal Court’s specialized docket for veterans – called Courts Assisting Military Offenders (CAMO).

The process for final certification requires a court to submit a detailed application, undergo a visit from the Supreme Court, report on practices, and provide program materials that support certification standards.

Chief Justice Sharon L. Kennedy congratulated Judge Jill T. Worthington and the Van Wert Municipal Court on this accomplishment.

“Specialized dockets are an investment in people to change lives, reunite families, and build safer communities," said Chief Kennedy. “They restore humanity through hope and dignity by helping those striving for recovery and a new beginning.”

Van Wert Municipal Court’s specialized docket for veterans was initially certified for a three-year period in January 2021. Since completing the process for recertification, the program is now certified until the end of 2029.

The CAMO specialized docket is a judge-supervised, intensive treatment program. It helps veterans in the criminal justice system to address their unique mental health, physical, and substance abuse-related needs and connects them to an array of services within the community. Goals of the program are to promote self-sufficiency, reduce recidivism, promote public safety, and provide an alternative to incarceration.

“It has truly been amazing to see the transformation of our participants reclaim their lives and come back to themselves with pride and dignity,” said Judge Worthington. “It has been one of the most rewarding experiences at Van Wert Municipal Court to see these veterans again raise their heads high with pride and accomplishment.”

Throughout its history, the CAMO specialized docket has reported a 64% successful program completion rate. It has received $450,000 in grant funds to provide participants with mental health and addiction treatment and recovery support. 

“It has been my extreme privilege and honor to be able to help and guide these participants through some of the worst times of their lives,” said John Wiley, chief probation officer, CAMO program director, and veteran. “The participants and the staff of CAMO Court form a bond during the program and have a great deal of respect for each other. I consider them not only as participants but my close friends.”

The Supreme Court certifies around 250 specialized dockets throughout the state, focusing on areas such as mental health, drug and alcohol addiction, domestic violence, human trafficking, and veterans.