The Influence of Neighborhood Risk Factors on Parolee Recidivism in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Recidivism research has largely addressed individual-level attributes, neglecting the role of the neighborhood context. Following a sample of 4,851 parolees returning to the City of Philadelphia in 2007 and 2008, the current study examines the role of the neighborhood context and nonresidential land uses (both risk and protective factors) in reincarceration and time to reincarceration. Although our findings suggest limited support for the neighborhood context in explaining reincarceration, we found that the presence of beer bars and liquor outlets within walking distance of a parolee’s home increased their likelihood of reincarceration and reduced their time in the community