BROWN COUNTY – On July 18, Brown County Veterans Treatment Court announced that it will officially change its name in honor of former Brown County Executive and Sheriff Thomas Hinz, who passed away on May 3 at the age of 83.
“Tom Hinz recognized that many veterans who proudly served our country often return home carrying the invisible wounds of trauma,” said Brown County Executive Troy Streckenbach. “Understanding the challenges they face in readjusting to civilian life, Tom dedicated himself to creating a specialized treatment court—one that not only holds veterans accountable but also provides a compassionate and respectful path to healing.”
“Hinz was instrumental in launching the Brown County Veterans Treatment Court back in 2012, utilizing his unique ability to relate with people, especially veterans, by demonstrating that he cared about them,” a county release stated.
The court also recognized three graduates that day — Katie George, Kevin Gille and Matthew Harris — who successfully completed the rehabilitative court program.
“This ceremony celebrates their resilience, recovery, and reintegration into the community. Over 100 veterans have graduated from the Brown County’s Thomas Hinz Veterans Treatment Court program,” said the Hon. Beau G. Liegeois, Brown County Circuit Court Branch 8.
The program serves veterans across multiple counties within the 8th Judicial District and is tailored to meet the unique needs of veterans involved in the justice system, focusing on service-connected trauma, mental health and substance use.
Veteran mentors are paired with participants to provide peer support, accountability and connection throughout the recovery process.
According to the county, veteran treatment courts have been shown to reduce recidivism by up to 30% compared to conventional criminal justice approaches.
The program works in partnership with the Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for treatment coordination and benefits access.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here