NCJ Number
170487
Journal
Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency Volume: 34 Issue: 2 Dated: (May 1997) Pages: 237-252
Date Published
1997
Length
16 pages
Annotation
This felony probation study, based on a national sample, indicated a recidivism rate of 31.2 percent among male property offenders sentenced to felony probation.
Abstract
Data were obtained from a national survey of felons on probation, and the final sample included 1,177 felons. The dependent study variable was first rearrest while on probation. Independent study variables included race, ethnicity, drug abuse history, age, marital status, education level, percentage time employed, number of prior felony convictions, probation term in months, and last supervision level. Results showed prior drug abuse was a good indicator of rearrest. Male felony offenders on probation for a property offense were more likely to be rearrested than offenders who did not have a prior history of drug abuse. An offender's probation term in months and last supervision level were also marginally significant. Specifically, felony probationers with more rigorous supervision were more likely to be arrested, probably because they had fewer opportunities to commit criminal acts without detection. The lowest rate of recidivism was found for white males, and the most significant predictor of recidivism for white males was drug abuse history. Older black males were slightly more likely to be rearrested for a felony than younger black males. Overall, the study indicates supervisors of felony property offenders need to pay close attention to probationers with a drug abuse history, those who have shorter probation sentences, and those who are older. 34 references, 13 notes, and 1 table