NCJ Number
186384
Journal
Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 28 Issue: 5 Dated: September/October 2000 Pages: 371-384
Editor(s)
Kent B. Joscelyn
Date Published
2000
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This research sought to provide a theoretical framework to explain and predict repeat incarceration periods for robbers within a cohort of parolees using data collected by the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction.
Abstract
The study population included 2,263 of 3,544 inmates released on parole in 1989. Logistic regression analysis showed an initial robbery predicted a subsequent incarceration period for robbery after controlling for demographic and criminal history variables. In a 3-year follow-up period, 47.5 percent of parolees were returned to prison. While most parolees were returned to prison for technical violations, just over 20 percent were actually returned for a new criminal case. Criminal history and race were consistently related to general recidivism. Other predictors related to general recidivism included number of prior felony arrests, two arrests within a 5-year period, drug abuse, prior parole-probation supervision and revocations, and age at release from prison. Age at first felony arrest, time served, alcohol abuse, and robbery did not predict recidivism. Predictors of recidivism varied by recidivism type. Prediction for general recidivism was broad, whereas violent recidivism was related to having had parole supervision and revocations and to age factors. Robbers were significantly more likely to return to prison for a violent crime than other offenders but not for general recidivism. Social and policy implications of the findings are discussed. 63 references and 4 tables