Predicting DUI Recidivism Following an Alcohol Safety Action Program

• NCJ Number: 187384
• Journal: Journal of Offender Rehabilitation Volume: 32 Issue: 1/2 Dated: 2000 Pages: 129-145
• Author(s): David J. Williams; Pamela Simmons; Adrian Thomas Ph.D.
• Editor(s): Nathaniel J. Pallone Ph.D.
• Date Published: 2000
• Length: 17 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Program/Project Description
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

Recognizing targeting predictors of recidivism may be beneficial for driving under the influence (DUI) interventions, this study identified relevant factors in probationer recidivism in a rural area of Virginia, applied these factors to predict probationer recidivism, and evaluated the impact of the local Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program (VASAP) on recidivism rates of convicted DUI offenders.

Abstract

The goal of the VASAP is to reduce, through substance abuse prevention, education, and probation, the number of drivers under the influence on Virginia roadways. The VASAP evaluates DUI offenders referred by local court systems and assigns these individuals to education classes, intensive education classes, outpatient counseling, or inpatient counseling programs, depending on the offender's identified need for services. To evaluate the VASAP, data were obtained from 377 probationers at a rural VASAP office. The sample consisted of 312 male and 65 female probationers; 340 of the probationers were white, 14 were black, and 21 were of Spanish or Mexican descent. Results of discriminant analysis showed the severity of probationer alcoholism and failure to complete the VASAP were effective predictors of recidivism. The VASAP was effective in deterring probationer recidivism because those who failed to complete the program were significantly more at risk of DUI conviction at least once during the year following their revocation date than those who successfully completed the program. Specifically, only 6.5 percent of those who completed the program recidivated, while 17 percent of those revoked from the VASAP recidivated. The authors conclude substance abuse intervention coupled with appropriate legal sanctions constitutes an appropriate and effective way of reducing drunk driving recidivism among convicted DUI offenders. 36 references and 3 tables