Recidivism in Prisons and Jails: What Works?

• In Event: Reentry and Recidivism

Abstract

Offenders are often sentenced to prisons or jails based on the length of their sentence. However, it is unknown which sentence impacts recidivism the most. If an offender is on the cusp and can be sentenced to either facility, research does not tell us which will have the best outcome after release. This study seeks to answer the question if two identical offenders are sentenced to prison and jail, respectively, which will be less likely to recidivate. This study will use data from 6 counties in Pennsylvania using the sentencing guidelines. Within the guidelines there are several scores where offenders can get prison or jail pending on judicial discretion. These offenders within the one box can be matched using propensity scores so that two similar individuals can be compared. Data from the Pennsylvania State Police includes RAP sheet data to look at recidivism for several years post release. Current data looks at offenders sentenced from 2006 to 2012; most offenders are sentenced for approximately one year, allowing for a 3 to 9 year follow-up pending on the cohort of offenders. Results can inform policy and sentencing procedures for judges who have to decide where to sentence an offender.

Author

• Kathleen Frey, American University