NCJ Number
85832
Date Published
1981
Length
208 pages
Annotation
This study applies the system dynamic analysis approach to the Minnesota criminal justice system and reviews the efficiency of the State's correctional educational programs in rehabilitating hard-core criminal populations.
Abstract
The system dynamic analysis approach brings into focus the interrelationships among all major criminal justice system components. Thus, it views the crime problem holistically. It looks at arrests, court processing, commitment to prison, probation, the prison population, parole, cost-benefits of the correctional educational program, employment status of ex-offenders, recidivism, and rehabilitation. Study data were obtained from 1930-77. The study analyzed general trends in the criminal justice system and compared offenders participating in the educational programs with those who did not participate. Findings revealed that nearly 50 percent of all crimes committed are not reported. The study indicated a somewhat significant relationship between correctional education and lowered recidivism rates in Minnesota. In addition, a stable post-prison job rather than education per se often played a major role in rehabilitation. In general, the study confirmed the need for further statistical studies about the numbers of persons arrested and released by the police, as well as continued use of system dynamic analysis. Data collection techniques should be made more precise in most criminal justice system areas. Tables, graphs, and a 70-entry bibliography are provided; study data are appended.