Predictors of Sexual Offense Recidivism

• In Event: Advances in Sex Offense Policy Research: Sex Crime Patterns

Abstract

Sexual offending and recidivism are topics of increasing concern for researchers and legislators alike. Risk assessments and treatment programs that target sexual recidivism continue to develop and improve, yet more research is needed to examine what types of sexual offenders are more likely to recommit a crime. In this study, we utilized secondary data collected from over 700 adult male sex offenders in Vermont to test which types of sexual offenders posed the most risk of committing a new offense after a three-year period. Specifically, we used multiple logistic regression models to examine which types of sexual offenders (e.g., rapists, non-contact offenders, etc.) were more likely to commit a new sexual, violent, or other offense. Findings from this study can inform efforts to reduce recidivism, particularly by identifying sexual offenses closely linked with re-offense.

Authors

• Jessica Robertson, Virginia Commonwealth University

• Trisha Rhodes, Virginia Commonwealth University