NCJ Number
85747
Date Published
1981
Length
49 pages
Annotation
Statistics on the 1,053 individuals released through parole and discharge from Massachusetts correctional facilities during 1979 detail their background and criminal history characteristics and then relate recidivism rates to these variables.
Abstract
Data for the 932 released men are from 5 correctional centers, 4 minimum security facilities, 6 drug programs, 13 prerelease centers, and 2 specialized facilities. Data sources for the 121 released females are 1 correctional center and 3 prerelease centers. The followup period is 1 year from the date of release to the community, and a recidivist is defined as any person returning to any correctional institution for 30 days or more. Of the total group, 87 percent were paroled and 13 percent were discharged. Tables first present statistics describing the characteristics of released individuals for each correctional center, minimum security facilities, and prerelease programs. They also contain the rates of recidivism cross-tabulated with each statistical category. For example, the tables show that persons paroled from Walpole correctional center had a 32 percent recidivism rate in contrast to the 28 percent rate for those discharged. Release variables examined include type of release, time served with jail credits, age at release, nature of offense, court of commitment, and age at incarceration. Personal background data cover sex, residence, education, employment, occupation, military discharge, drug use, marital status, Hispanic indicator, and race. Information is also provided on criminal history, such as age at first arrest, prior charges, prior incarcerations, and juvenile crime, as well as furloughs and their outcomes. Followup data describe type of return, results of revocation hearings, parole violations, and new offenses. A glossary is appended. For related material on 1978, see NCJ-85746.