CINCINNATI — After months and sometimes years of battling addictions and navigating the criminal justice system, four more of our country’s veterans living in Ohio have received a second chance.

What You Need To Know

  • Butler County Veterans Treatment Court celebrated four local veterans on their graduation day

  • The program started in 2017 and, so far, 34 veterans have been successful

  • The court and program helps veterans overcome challenges that come with substance abuse and mental health struggles

“Things have been hard for me, but it’s been hard for all of us you know,” said U.S. Army veteran Duane Parish as he spoke at a special graduation ceremony inside the Butler County Veterans Treatment Court.

Parish joined the military at 17.

For a long time he was caught up in the court system, but he’s changed and put in the work.

Advocates introduced him to the program while he was in jail.

“I thank God every day they did because they definitely saved my life and maybe the lives of some other people because I was in a really bad place in my life,” Parish said.

With a handshake, a coin and a certificate, Parish and three other veterans can have a fresh start.

“We always say, ‘You might not know them all, but you owe them all,’” said Butler County Judge Michael Oster.

Oster has run the court since it started in 2017.

“My grandfather flew bombers in World War II, my dad, my uncles were all law enforcement. I just had to be a part of this and it’s been probably the most rewarding part of the 10 years I’ve been on the bench now,” he said.

Graduates said it takes a lot of hard work and dedication.

Veterans receive comprehensive behavioral health treatment and intensive supervision to help stay on track.

“We keep all the veterans in the court together throughout the whole hearing. They celebrate each other, they cheer each other on. They’ve helped each other to find jobs. They get back that camaraderie that they had when they were serving,” Oster said.

For some, it can take nearly two years to get through the program.

This was Parish’s second graduation.

He said the first time he wasn’t honest with himself.

“I’ve had a lot of losses. I’ve been diagnosed with cancer, so I’m fighting that, but I’m not going to let it get me down this time. My wife, I love her so much and she’s such a support and I’m not going to forget the support I got from here this time,” he said.

Parish has been enjoying his time with his children and grandchildren and works with the grounds crew at the VA Hospital.

He’s open to sharing his story and advice with fellow veterans who are struggling.

“Just be honest and do the honorable thing. Get help, ask for help, and stay with it. It’s all worth it,” Parish said.

This was the 13th Veterans Treatment Court graduation in Butler County. 

So far, 34 veterans have been successful.

They say the best parts have been reconnecting with family, regaining meaningful employment, and finding a new place to call home.