NCJ Number
152362
Date Published
1993
Length
53 pages
Annotation
This report explores the use of finger printing section number (FPS) data for the study of recidivism in Canada.
Abstract
The FPS research file contains information on persons convicted and entered onto the FPS system from 1982 to early 1985. Included for each offender is general demographic data and criminal history. The FPS database is currently the only national integrated source of information on offender criminality. Offender criminal histories, as recorded by the FPS system, were analyzed to determine whether any offense or demographic patterns could be discerned among repeat offenders. The results of this study are intended to inform the justice community on patterns of criminality and to be used as a prototype for future work in the area of recidivism. Issues related to data quality, coverage, and validity were examined through a review of previous evaluations of the database, detailed data analysis, and expert advice from FPS staff. Study findings are consistent with previous research findings on recidivism that support the premise that, overall, the FPS system, as of 1985, is a reasonable source of information for recidivism research; however, there are limitations, since the FPS system is a police operational tool that was not intended for use as a statistical database. 10 figures, 7 tables, 8 references, and an offense severity scale