SHEBOYGAN — The atmosphere in the Sheboygan Area Veterans Treatment Court is filled with applause, smiles and laughter – a stark contrast to traditional courtrooms.

Instead of focusing on punishment, this program emphasizes positive reinforcement.

Watch: Sheboygan veteran court aids local servicemembers with treatment instead of jail Sheboygan veteran court aids local service members with treatment instead of jail time

The program was the first of its kind in the county when it started in 2012 and only the second in the state at the time. Many of the veterans who take part in monthly appearances are charged with crimes related to substance abuse.

"I have a lot of struggles. Some are day to day. Some just pop up," one veteran said during a court appearance.

While the crime remains

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