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Survival Model of Pretrial Failure

NCJ Number
124737
Journal
Journal of Quantitative Criminology Volume: 6 Issue: 2 Dated: (June 1990) Pages: 153-184
Author(s)
C A Visher; R L Linster
Date Published
1990
Length
32 pages
Annotation
This paper examines the likelihood of rearrest during the pretrial period with a model that depends on both time elapsed since release and on individual and case characteristics.
Abstract
Using data on a sample of male arrestees release on recognizance in the District of Columbia in 1984, we apply a survival or hazard model to the problem of "predicting" pretrial rearrest. We are particularly interested in whether drug use, as measured by urinalysis at arrest, is predictive of pretrial rearrest and its timing. Results show, for example, that drug use or a charge for larceny is associated with high risk levels in the period immediately following release. In our data, the number of prior convictions exerts a strong effect on rearrest risk throughout the pretrial period, but the initial high risk associated with being on probation or parole or having pending charges decreases rapidly over the course of a year at risk. 5 tables, 6 figures, 16 notes, 3 appendixes, 18 references. (Author abstract)