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Investigating the Effect of Post-Release Housing Mobility on Recidivism: Considering Individuals Convicted of Sexual Offenses

NCJ Number
308037
Journal
Sexual Abuse: A Journal of Research and Treatment Volume: 35 Issue: 5 Dated: 2023 Pages: 539-567
Author(s)
Jason Rydberg; Beth M. Huebner; Eric Grommon; Amanda Miller
Date Published
2022
Length
29 pages
Annotation

This study examines how housing mobility post-parole affects recidivism among individuals convicted of sexual offenses.

Abstract

In the present study, the authors use a quasi-experimental propensity score weighting design to compare a sample of individuals paroled from prison in Michigan for sexual and non-sexual crimes (N = 3930) to consider the role of housing mobility on the likelihood of rearrests and technical revocation, with attention to disaggregating sexual crimes against adults and children. Results suggest that increased movement was distinctly associated with a higher hazard of rearrest for individuals with a sexual offense conviction, and a strong predictor of technical return hazard for both individuals with sexual and non-sexual convictions. It is widely understood that stable housing is a key element in the transition from prison to the community. However, many persons under correctional supervision face substantial barriers in securing and maintaining housing, a fact that is heightened among individuals with a sexual offense conviction. Although frequent movement is commonplace among people on parole, it is unclear how housing changes affect recidivism outcomes and whether such mobility uniquely impacts individuals with a sexual offense conviction. (Published Abstract Provided)