A few years ago I read a report that stated the recidivism rate was about 75%. The report further indicated that this rate had been constant for many years, and that “prison reforms” and all of the extras prisoners get made zero difference in rehabilitation.
75% recidivism rate is incorrect by any standard I’ve ever studied and an overall rate can not be established that easily.
Recidivism depends on many factors, first being the type of crime committed. The highest rate of repeats I’ve ever studied (Justice Dept stats here) was for robbery/car theft and unfortunately child molestation.
However, the report was dead on when it comes to recidivism rates staying at a steady rate. Fact is the criminal mind will remain regardless of punishment, restorative justice programs etc.