Reducing Crime, Reducing Costs, and Transforming Lives
Florida releases over 24,000 incarcerated individuals each year, with over 60% rearrested within three years. This report outlines evidence-based strategies to improve reentry outcomes, reduce recidivism, and lower correctional costs while transforming lives.
Key Insights
Reentry Challenges in Florida
- High Recidivism Rates: Over 60% of released individuals are rearrested within three years, with 20-25% reincarcerated.
- Stable Incarceration Rates: Despite crime rates halving over the past two decades, the prison population remains consistent due to high cycling rates.
- Economic Impact: Effective reentry programs can save taxpayers up to $17 for every $1 invested.
Evidence-Based Practices
- Employment Programs
- Work release and correctional industries programs reduce recidivism by up to 50%.
- Each $1 invested generates $17 in societal benefits.
- Education and Substance Abuse Treatment
- Educational programs reduce recidivism by up to 13% and save $5-$12 per $1 spent.
- Substance abuse treatment programs reduce recidivism by 10%.
- Mental Health and Family Connectivity
- Mental health programs reduce recidivism by 40-50%.
- Visitation programs reduce rearrests by 25%.
- Transitional Services
- Programs bridging incarceration and community reintegration reduce recidivism by 9%.
Proposed Solutions
- Expand Reentry Programs: Pilot initiatives for higher-risk inmates, digital literacy, and job readiness.
- Invest in Mental Health and Substance Abuse Treatment: Model programs after successful state and federal initiatives.
- Simplify Family Visitation: Enhance support for mediated and video visits.
- Evaluate Existing Programs: Fund evaluations of Florida’s Operation New Hope to scale effective practices.