Lost in Transition: Veterans’ Pathways into the Justice System

• In Event: Addressing the Gaps: Improving Identification and Support for Justice-Involved Veterans

Abstract

This presentation examines insights from thirteen listening sessions conducted with justice-involved veterans to better understand their pathways into the criminal justice system and the systemic gaps that affected them. Participants detailed how the transition to civilian life was often marked by inadequate support, resource scarcity, and disconnection from military structures. Many veterans described struggling with mental and physical health challenges—particularly PTSD and substance use disorders—that contributed to their justice involvement. Financial instability and the loss of military camaraderie further compounded their difficulties. A common theme was the failure of the justice system to consistently identify veteran status, which often delayed or prevented access to veteran-specific interventions, including diversionary programs.

Veterans also shared mixed experiences with Veterans Treatment Courts, noting both their benefits and their limited availability, especially in rural or underserved areas. Participants highlighted the lack of veteran-specific correctional housing and reentry programs, with female veterans reporting a complete absence of tailored services during or after incarceration. These findings point to critical gaps in how justice systems engaged with veterans, underscoring the need for improved identification processes and the expansion of veteran-focused programming to ensure veterans receive the specialized care and support necessary for successful reintegration

Authors

• Susan Howley, Justice Information Resource Network

• Diba Rouzbahani, Justice Information Resource Network

• Stephanie C. Kennedy, Council on Criminal Justice