News

Northampton County Treatment Courts Celebrate 10th Anniversary and Hold First Veterans Court Graduation

July 22, 2025

Pa. Supreme Court Justice Daniel D. McCaffery today joined Northampton County Judge Jennifer Sletvold and numerous other dignitaries and staff at the Northampton County Courthouse to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the county’s Treatment Courts.

Northampton County’s Recovery Court and Mental Health Court were established in 2015 by President Judge Craig A. Dally, and in 2024, Judge Sletvold established the Veterans’ Court. Today’s celebration was particularly special for the Veterans’ Court, which held its first graduation today. The Veterans’ Court graduate was joined in graduation by one Mental Health Court graduate and nine Recovery Court graduates. Today’s graduates join the ranks of 116 successful Recovery Court graduates and 118 successful Mental Health Court graduates.

“Treatment courts are one of the most meaningful examples of how our justice system can be both compassionate and effective,” Justice McCaffery said. “Today’s celebration isn’t just about anniversaries or graduations – it’s about lives reclaimed, families reunited and futures restored. Northampton County is leading by example and reminding us that justice can be a pathway to healing.”

“These courts are about recognizing the unique struggles of those who come before us and meeting them with accountability, support and dignity,” Judge Sletvold said. “Launching the Veterans’ Court and seeing our first graduate walk across the stage today shows that our work continues to evolve to meet the needs of those we serve, and it is an honor to be part of this legacy and this moment.”

All of Northampton County’s treatment courts seek to enhance public safety and community well-being by providing intensive supervision, treatment, and community-based supports to offenders with mental illness and/or substance use disorder. The courts bring together multidisciplinary teams including criminal justice and social service professionals, treatment and service providers, and peers to support participants in achieving long-term wellness.   

There are currently more than 137 treatment court programs in Pennsylvania – including Veterans Courts, Mental Health Courts, Adult Drug Courts, Family Drug Courts, DUI Courts, Re-Entry Drug Court, Juvenile Drug Courts and Adult Drug/DUI Hybrid Courts. The purpose of these treatment courts is to reduce recidivism and help individuals return to their jobs and families and become productive citizens.

 

 

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Media contact: Casey Scheffler, 610-425-1712