Recidivism rates

This report examines rates of recidivism, which are commonly used as a key measure of public safety and for assessing the effectiveness of the criminal justice system—including sentencing, jails, prisons, community supervision, treatment, and reentry programming—while addressing the continued interest in tracking recidivism beyond a three-year follow-up period, as long-term analysis can provide valuable insights for supporting incarcerated individuals and promoting their successful reintegration into the community following a prison sentence.

This report will draw on the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPC)'s Jail Booking and Reporting System (JBRS) to evaluate the potential demographic disparities by rates of days in jail and by rates of recidivism.