News Report | February 25, 2008
Provision of Social Services to Inmates in Allegheny County Cuts Recidivism Rate by Half
OPEN MINDS On-Line News
Inmates in Pittsburghs Allegheny County Jail (ACJ) who were provided with a wide array of social services during incarceration had a 50% lower recidivism rate than inmates who received usual jail services. About 16.5% of the study population reoffended within a year of release compared to 33.1% of inmates in the study control group. Following release, these individuals had improved housing stability and higher enrollment in community-based service organizations. Allegheny County reported annual savings of more than $5.3 million due to reduced recidivism rates. </p . . .