The Joint Effects of Race, Ethnicity, Gender, and Age on the Likelihood of Recidivism from a Local Jail

The overwhelming incarceration and recidivism rates in the United States marked by pronounced extralegal disparities are recognized social burdens that continue to require attention. Despite the number of people affected by the jail system and its unique role in the criminal justice system, much of the literature about recidivism and disparities focuses on former prison inmates. Using focal concerns perspective as a theoretical underpinning, this study examined the impact of race, ethnicity, gender, and age on the likelihood of recidivism from a local jail in Milwaukee County, Wisconsin. Results of the study suggested that significant disparities existed in the likelihood of jail recidivism, with non-Hispanic Blacks, males, and younger individuals having the highest odds of receiving a subsequent charge. When race, ethnicity, and gender interactions were considered, it was found that the racial/ethnic effect was driven by non-Hispanic Black males’ likelihood to recidivate within 12-months of release. Age interactions further indicated that younger non-Hispanic Black males were the most disadvantaged group. Policy implications and future research are discussed throughout the paper.