Tracking recidivism can provide necessary information to support successful integration into the community following a prison sentence – which promotes community and public safety. Furthermore, understanding the individuals who are more likely to recidivate, and assessing demographic differences amongst the years can provide even more knowledge for supporting successful reentry.

Rates of recidivism have been commonly used as a key measure for public safety and in assessing the effectiveness of the criminal justice system – sentencing, jails, prisons, community supervision, treatment and reentry programming. There is continued interest in tracking recidivism rates beyond a three-year follow up. Tracking long-term recidivism can provide information for supporting incarcerated individuals and promoting their success to reintegrate into the community following a prison sentence.

Statistical Analysis Center

Statistics on the arrest rates over a 15 year period for those registering as sex offenders in Washington.