An Examination Into Veterans' Likelihood of Recidivism in Florida

• In Event: Theories and Predictors of Reoffending

Abstract

The increase in the number of Florida citizens entering the prison system has created a bigger impact on the correctional system than only intake. The rates of recidivism from Florida prisons continue to be a significant bearing on the Florida correctional system. Using data from 2003 to 2013 provided by the Florida Department of Corrections, this research used logistic regression measures to explain how prior military experience has on the likelihood of recidivism for males in Florida. The findings for the study found that prior military service has a positive, statistically significant effect on a felon being rearrested in 2 years for any crime, as well as rearrested for a felony in 2 years following release. However, this research has found that the specific military branch that the felon served in was not statistically significant in predicting the likelihood of recidivism. The Florida criminal justice system needs to take into account these findings to provide additional services for veterans during prison and following their release to reduce the likelihood of their recidivism.

Authors

• Elizabeth Borkowski, Florida State University

• William Bales, Florida State University