Reducing Recidivism: Creating A Better System

Introduction

Author: Alex Cifuentes

Department: UIC Institute for Policy and Civic Engagement (IPCE)

Advisor: Dr. Joseph K. Hoereth, IPCE
Carla Duran Graduate Assistant, IPCE

Abstract: In the United States, incarceration rates remain high compared with other countries. Re-offense and reentry into prison are common patterns, creating a cycle for inmates. This cycle, known as recidivism, describes the tendency of convicted criminals to reoffend and return to prison. The U.S. tends to emphasize punitive over rehabilitative policies. The carceral system promises incapacitation, deterrence, and rehabilitation; however, recidivism rates show that these promises have largely failed in Illinois. Virgina on the other hand holds the lowest recidivism rate in the country at 17%, due to their programing initiatives for inmates. Specifically, Virginia has achieved one of the lowest incarceration entry rates among states. The goal of this research is to provide recommendations to improve Illinois' rehabilitation programs and reduce recidivism. A literature review was conducted that included scholarly articles, census data, government websites, and state reentry guides to evaluate state success. Additionally, this research conducted a case study by comparing Illinois and Virginia’s response to offenders. Studies concerning Virginia show strong results, as the state prides itself on its low rates. Jobs and education assistance in Virginia have proven vital in reducing recidivism, with easier access to these resources than in Illinois. A key example of this is Virginia’s Pre- and Post-Incarceration Services (PAPIS) Coalition, which consists of nine core nonprofit organizations serving 96 of Virginia’s 113 jurisdictions through coordinated, state-funded reentry services. In contrast, Illinois has over 100 reentry programs and nonprofits supporting formerly incarcerated individuals, but the lack of centralized coordination and inconsistent data reporting creates gaps in effective rehabilitation. This comparison suggests that job and education resources must be implemented at the state level for a successful rehabilitation program to exist. Additionally, Illinois needs to better organize and fund nonprofit organizations to build more effective reentry programs to support inmates. This study recommends that states shift their focus from punishment to rehabilitation by expanding access to coordinated reentry resources and strengthening community-based support systems. The first step that Illinois can take is investing into re-entry programs that exist, as well to start creating more government funded re-entry programs.

Keywords: Reentry, Recidivism, Education, Illinois, Virginia, Literature review