Analyzing the heterogeneous nature of inmate violence: Trajectories of prison misconduct

• In Event: Violence in Jails and Prisons

Abstract

The current study extends prior research on serious (assaultive) prison misconduct by investigating inmate violence trajectories over time. Using prison level data (primary inmate, prison disciplinary, and criminal history files) collected from the Oregon Department of Corrections and criminal histories obtained from the Oregon State Police, the current study examines inmates’ violent prison misconduct trajectories for the years 1996-2007. Given the results of previous studies, it is important to examine the effects of inmate characteristics, general criminality, custody level, community violence (prior violent crime arrest) on inmate violence trajectories. Suggestions for improved approaches in assigning risk ratings based on inmate violence trajectories, prior criminal history, and seriousness of offense will also be discussed.

Authors

• Abdullah Cihan, East Carolina University

• Jonathan Sorensen, East Carolina University