Los Angeles County To Unveil Veterans Court

LOS ANGELES (AP) — Los Angeles County is joining court systems across the U.S. that are focusing on rehabilitating military veterans who have troubles with the law rather than putting them in jail.

The nation's largest trial court system is launching its veterans court Monday. It will give participants the opportunity to participate in mental health and substance abuse treatment programs after they plead guilty to their crimes.

The Department of Justice estimates that veterans account for about 10 percent of the population with criminal records. There are now more than 30 courts nationwide that offer help to veterans. The first was launched in Buffalo, N.Y., in January 2008.

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