NCJ Number
111010
Date Published
1987
Length
77 pages
Annotation
This report is an evaluation of recidivism for inmates released from Rhode Island correctional institutions during 1978-1980. It also includes historical data for 1972-1977 and provisional data for 1981.
Abstract
Total recidivism rates were defined as inmates reincarcerated for new offenses or violations of parole, suspended/deferred sentences, or probation. For the 1978 cohort, total recidivism rate was 63.8 percent, 57.9 percent, and 60.3 percent for the 1978, 1979, and 1980 cohorts, respectively. Jail or prison recidivism rates (new offense or parole revocation) for the 3 years were 45.9 percent, 44.4 percent, and 49.2 percent. Of the total sample of 1,267 releasees, 23.9 percent had served time prior and subsequent to 1978-1980; 18.6 percent had terminated their second sentence prior to 1978-1980, but no subsequent sentence; 22.8 percent had terminated their first sentence in 1978-1980, but subsequently returned to prison; and 34.7 percent did not recidivate. Recidivism rates were highest for those released at the expiration of their sentences, followed by those released on parole, and lowest for those on other types of releases. Recidivism rates were highest for 17- to 19-year-old releasees and lowest for those 50 or older. Blacks showed the highest rates, followed by Hispanics and whites. Median time between release and recidivism was 18.2 months. Burglary, robbery, assault, and drug-related offenses were the most common recidivist offenses. 25 tables.