Two Cobb Vets First to Complete Veterans Treatment Court

MARIETTA, GA -- Two Cobb County veterans -- both of whom suffered from addiction and run-ins with the law -- will graduate from an innovative veterans treatment program on Friday.

Willis Hatfield-Reavis of Marietta, and Smyrna's Brandon Musser, have completed the Cobb County Veterans Treatment Court (VTC) program.

Hatfield-Reavis, a former paratrooper in the famed 82nd Airborne, and Musser, a former Marine, both saw overseas combat during their time in the military. When they returned to civilian life, both struggled with addictions and PTSD.

Research suggests many veterans suffer from adjustment issues when they come back into civilian life, such as post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries. Completion of the program signifies the mens' completion of a minimum 18-month long program.

“This treatment court offers veterans who have sacrificed so much for our nation, an opportunity to address the issues brought on by their military service, that have ultimately lead to their involvement with the criminal justice system,” said program coordinator Flynn Broady. “Now, with all of their hard work and dedication, these graduates have a chance to fulfill the potential they demonstrated when initially joining the military."

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Former Marine and VTC presiding judge, Reuben Green, said veterans often will treat mental health issues with different substances to cope.

“Once they are stable, the VTC assists them in identifying stable housing and then requires them to nd a job or enroll in a higher education program,” Green said.

VTC treatment coordinator Kristie Garrett said, “Both of our graduates joined the military at a young age and entered an environment where someone told them when to eat, bathe and sleep. When they began adjusting to a normal lifestyle again without the structure the military afforded them, they discovered they were lacking essential life skills, and turned to drugs and alcohol as a way to cope. Treatment and therapy, provided by the VTC in conjunction with the Atlanta VA Medical Center, helped to provide theses participants with the tools they need to live a successful life on their own.”

The ceremony will be held at 9 a.m., Friday, May 13, in the first floor jury assembly room of the Cobb County Superior Court.