Why do some ex-convicts relapse into crime? The answer can be complex and contradictory. But some facts are clear: keeping people out of jail in the first place helps them avoid a second or multiple incarcerations, and can reduce the financial burdens placed on prisons and support programs.
- Recidivism is the rate of re-offending. It's been described as a return to correctional supervision on a new conviction within two years of completing probation, parole, a conditional sentence or a jail sentence of six months or more.
- There are several risk factors associated with re-offending: Age, time employed, attitude to probation, address changes, number and type of prior conviction, and gender.
- Age is one of the most important predictors of recidivism. According to research, criminal activity peaks in the late teens or early adult years, then gradually declines. Older offenders are less likely to commit additional crimes after their release.
- In Surrey, B.C., RCMP and youth probation officers have a new partnership to keep troubled youth from getting more entrenched in the judicial system. The program works with young people to help them comply with court-ordered conditions and break the cycle of offending.
- The quality of a person's marital or family relations, their financial and emotional stability, their friendships, and their alcohol or drug use are some predisposing factors associated with re-offending.
- Most convicted offenders have at least one prior conviction, either in youth or adult court.
- Among those labelled as recidivists, nearly one-third have a prior conviction and nearly 75 per cent have multiple prior convictions.
- Recidivism affects social services, sentencing, probation and bail. From judges to social workers, all involved parties must work together to understand the risk posed by various individuals.
- Longer periods of incarceration may actually increase the likelihood of recidivism among offenders. Mandatory sentences lead to more trials, appeals and prison overcrowding. This has an impact on reintegrating offenders and contributes to repeat offences.
- Several research studies have found the most successful ways to reduce recidivism among offenders, both immediately after release and over the long-term, are prison-based and community-based treatment programs and substance-abuse facilities.
- Some drug treatment programs delivered by the Correctional Service of Canada (CSC) appear to have a significant impact on the rate of recidivism following release, particularly when followed by support during the aftercare period. The CSC says recidivism rates decreased dramatically among participants who completed substance abuse programs.
- According to CSC research, on average, every dollar spent on correctional programming returns four dollars in saved incarceration costs.
- CSC analysis indicates that offenders who participate in correctional programs during their time in custody are less likely to reoffend upon release.
- A U.S. study found prison inmates who receive general education and vocational training are significantly less likely to return to prison after release, and are more likely to find employment than peers who don't receive such opportunities.
- Earlier research provided by Public Safety Canada says reintegrating an offender into a community that provides support and assistance will be more effective than in communities where follow-up programs aren't available.