The Implementation and Evaluation of a Reentry Initiative for Individuals with a Sexual Offense Conviction

• In Event: Restorative Justice and the Complex Realities of Coming Home

Abstract

While all returned residents face barriers that hinder their successful reintegration into the community, when an individual has a sexual offense (SO) on their record these barriers are compounded. Circles of Support and Accountability (CoSA) is a restorative justice and community-based reentry program for high-risk individuals who have been convicted of a SO who also have limited pro-social community support. This study describes a CoSA initiative that was implemented in south Florida in 2021 and served individuals until mid-2024. Specifically, this study focuses on the program’s design, implementation, and evaluation. Findings from the evaluation highlight implementation and operational challenges, which hindered the ability of the program to operate as designed and serve the intended number of participants. Narratives from interviews with program participants illustrate their numerous and substantial reentry challenges, including homelessness and residential instability, mental and physical health issues, employment, transportation, supervision requirements, and limited life skills. Recommendations to enhance CoSA program fidelity and reduce challenges will be discussed.

Authors

• Cassandra Atkin-Plunk, Florida Atlantic University

• Gabriel T. Cesar, Florida Atlantic University