NCJ Number
196017
Date Published
2000
Length
63 pages
Annotation
This paper reports on the methodology and findings of a recidivism study of over 3,600 inmates who were released more than 3 years ago in Maryland, Minnesota, and Ohio, with attention to the impact of educational participation while incarcerated.
Abstract
As the study began, each State determined who were the next 1,000 or more releasees. The study covered inmates who were released in late summer 1997 to early winter 1998. These inmates were given a 1-hour interview at their various institutions. Criminal history and education data were collected on each person. After release, the parole officers were asked for behavioral and employment information. Rearrest, reconviction, and re-incarceration data were collected from State records. Data on over 500 variables have been collected on the study participants. This first report deals primarily with recidivism; additional reports will focus on the demographics of the participants. The study found that simply attending school in prison reduced the likelihood of re-incarceration by 29 percent. Translated into savings, every dollar spent on education returned at least $23,280,000 to the State. Although it is difficult to determine which kinds of education programs are most effective, investments in the provision of well-designed education programs for inmates is clearly indicated by this study. The fact that the recidivism results were similar for three different States suggests that educational programs for inmates are generally effective in various correctional environments. 2 tables