A Unique Approach to Address Potential Criminal Risk among Veterans through Higher Education

• In Event: Collusion in the Courts: What Many Courts Do Not Want to Hear about Veteran Defendants

Abstract

Low levels of performance and satisfaction in education, as well as work, are risk factors contributing to the potential for criminal behavior. This is just as true for the military veteran community as it is for civilians. Institutions of higher education, like Western Oregon University, are in an ideal position to address these issues, while effectively reducing the likelihood of veteran criminal behavior. Through its on-campus veteran resource center, Western Oregon University has developed a program that creates veteran cohorts who attend traditional mixed-student classes. This approach is similar to the Battle Buddy system, which many service members are familiar. The resource center serves as a hub for veterans to connect with each other on campus, the veterans club, and additional community resources such as VA and nonprofit services. The risk principle proposes that populations who are at the highest risk of offending should be specifically targeted. A WOU veteran center representative connects with veterans, local institutions and community providers to assist high-risk veterans in navigating the college process. This includes cooperation with the local Veteran’s criminal court, Oregon State Prison Veterans Club, homeless shelters, counseling centers, and VA facilities.

Author

• Kyle Rodgers, Western Oregon University