reentry | Definition

Doc's CJ Glossary by Adam J. McKee
Course: General Term

Reentry in corrections is reintegrating offenders into society, reducing recidivism, enhancing safety, and providing economic benefits through a collaborative effort.


Reentry in the corrections context refers to the process of reintegrating offenders into society after they have been released from incarceration. It is a critical component of the criminal justice system that seeks to promote successful reintegration, reduce recidivism, and enhance public safety.

Reentry begins while the offender is still incarcerated and involves a range of services and programs designed to prepare the offender for a successful return to the community. These services may include education and vocational training, substance abuse treatment, mental health services, and counseling.

Upon release, the offender is typically placed on parole or probation and may be required to comply with a range of conditions, including regular check-ins with a parole or probation officer, participation in treatment programs, and drug and alcohol testing. The goal is to provide the offender with support and supervision as they transition back into the community.

Successful reentry requires a collaborative effort between the offender, the criminal justice system, and the community. Offenders must be committed to making positive changes in their lives and must be willing to take advantage of the services and programs available to them. The criminal justice system must provide effective and evidence-based reentry services and programs, as well as adequate supervision and support. The community must be engaged in the process and must provide opportunities for employment, housing, and other resources that can support successful reintegration.

One of the primary goals of reentry in the corrections context is to reduce recidivism. Recidivism refers to the tendency of offenders to return to criminal behavior after their release from incarceration. Reentry programs aim to reduce recidivism by providing offenders with the skills, knowledge, and support they need to successfully reintegrate into society.

Reentry in the corrections context also seeks to enhance public safety by reducing the risk of reoffending. Successful reentry can lead to reduced crime rates, as offenders are less likely to commit new crimes when they are provided with the support and resources they need to succeed.

Reentry in the corrections context also has economic benefits. Incarceration is expensive, and successful reentry can reduce the cost of incarceration by reducing the number of offenders who return to prison. Additionally, successful reentry can lead to increased employment and tax revenues as offenders become productive members of society.


[ Glossary ]

Last Modified: 04/27/2023

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