Examining Effective Reentry Systems at Reducing Recidivism to Determine Possible Improvements for Less Effective Systems

Recidivism is one of the most discussed issues in the topic of criminal justice reform due to how it contributes to the problems of crime and mass incarceration. To address this problem, correctional facilities across the United States have developed reentry systems, which prepare an incarcerated individual for their release back into society near the completion of their sentence. When implemented and run correctly, reentry programs can be effective at significantly reducing the likelihood that individuals will recidivate. This thesis focuses on programs run in Arizona and Michigan, which both have significantly lower recidivism rates than the national average. The programs analyzed in this paper were found to be particularly efficient at reducing recidivism by providing individuals with essential services and opportunities for reintegrating back into society. The common factors between these programs included large amounts of funding, collaboration between state agencies and non-profit organizations, and providing access to services from the beginning of an individual’s sentence to months after their release. By adopting similar practices and programs, other states may be able to more effectively address recidivism in the way that Arizona and Michigan have.