There are many different definitions of recidivism which makes it very difficult to measure. For this particular research proposal we will be using a broad definition which will encompass various forms of reoffending. According to U.S. Sentencing Commission (USSC) a report released in May 2004 Measuring Recidivism: The Criminal History Computation of the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, two definitions are used: “The first, or “primary,” definition includes the first occurring of any one of the following three types of events during the offender’s initial two years back in the community: a re-conviction for a new offense; a re-arrest with no conviction disposition information available on the post-release criminal history record; or a supervision …show more content…
If a person has committed a previous offence a harsher punishment must be issued. In the “Prison Recidivism: Towards Reduction, Rehabilitation and Reform” study, results showed that 44 percent of recidivists committed larceny, robbery and housebreaking 38 percent of recidivists committed narcotic-related crimes 53 percent were recidivists who committed robbery offences, 59 percent were recidivists who committed narcotic offences, 75 percent were recidivists who committed larceny, breaking and housebreaking offences and 31 percent were recidivists who committed person-related offences. The amount of convictions a person has is a good indication if he or she will recidivate. Without proper treatment and programs the offenders are released back into the neighborhoods they once wrecked havoc in. Repeat Deviant behavior criminal acts may not only be a response to limited institutionalized means of success but upon leaving prison they do not have legitimate means to prevent themselves from reoffending. According to Cloward and Ohlin 1960 crime results from increased access to illegitimate opportunity structures. Juveniles who live in poverty stricken neighborhoods are generally provided with more illegal opportunities than legal ones. Within their areas they become involved in activities that often provide opportunities to make money, as quickly and easily as possible. Upon re entry into society newly released offenders reinitiate themselves into criminal activity either committing a new offence or the original crime sequentially coming back to prison. They are reconvicted and serve a prison sentence and the cycle is repeated placing a great strain on the prison system and the community they are released