Since many crimes are conducted by recidivists, increased attention to re-entry programs is critical to reduction of crime rates regionwide, and especially in urban communities.  A more systemic approach to offender reentry would involve traditional agencies as well as more involved collaboration with non-traditional partners such as community leaders and service providers.  

Almost 20,000 inmates are released every year in Massachusetts, but do not have access to a strong system of supports and preparation for reentry.  More than 50% of released offenders are arrested or re-incarcerated within three years of release.  Reducing recidivism requires a combination of strategies affecting sentencing, prison services and assessment, reentry planning, post-release supervision, and data collection.  

Increased coordination among relevant agencies is also necessary, since different agencies manage arrest, incarceration, release, and support.  These agencies – the Departments of Health and Human Services, Public Safety and Security, Labor and Workforce Development, and the Department of Probation and the Court system – should work together to build implement a more unified system that provides inmates with the support and training they need to become productive members of society.

8.a    The Governor should establish an Offender Transition Task Force to address issues of prisoner reentry into their communities and recidivism

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