Releases from a Local Jail: The Impact of Visitation on Recidivism

• In Event: A Focus on Jails: The Role of Local Justice Systems in Shaping Jail Usage and Recidivism

Abstract

An extensive amount of research examining the effects of visitation on recidivism among state prisoners has been amassed. Prior research reveals that in-prison visitation reduces the likelihood of post-prison recidivism. However, research examining patterns of visitation in local jails, and how post-jail recidivism may be impacted is noticeably non-existent. Jails provide a unique, localized aspect of the criminal justice system that has been largely unexplored by researchers. Furthermore, jails are the gateway to the criminal justice system and typically see much higher levels of admissions and releases of inmates than prisons. Using data from a mid-sized Florida jail, we build upon prior work by examining jail visitation patterns and their potential impact on recidivism. Findings from this study and policy implications are discussed.

Authors

• William Casey, Florida State University

• William D. Bales, Florida State University

• Jennifer Copp, Florida State University

• Thomas G. Blomberg, Florida State University