An analysis of Massachusetts Department of Corrections administrative data on recidivism revealed that the three-year reincarceration rate of male inmates released in 2002 was 39 percent.

An analysis of Massachusetts Department of Corrections administrative data on recidivism revealed that the three-year reincarceration rate of male inmates released in 2002 was 39 percent, reported the Urban Institute and MDOC in one of two reports that make up a collaborative study that examines factors contributing to recidivism. Massachusetts Recidivism Study: A Closer Look at Releases and Returns to Prison compares recidivists with nonrecidivists across demographics, criminal history., offense type, time served, release type and in-prison reentry preparation. The data indicate that recidivists, on average, were younger, served shorter sentences, were more likely to be unmarried and were more likely to be black. Nonviolent offenders recidivated at higher rates than violent offenders (43 percent vs. 36 percent), and property offenders had the highest recidivism rates at 57 percent.

The companion report, Reincarcerated: The Experiences of Men Returning to Massachusetts Prisons, consists of an analysis of parole officer focus groups and interviews with recidivists as they return to prison. To view both reports, visit www.urban.org.