Adapted Risk-Needs-Responsivity Model to Reduce Recidivism in an Underserved Area: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Pre-Release and Post-Release Reentry Components

The applicant proposes to implement a risk-needs-responsivity (RNR) model and evaluate pre- and post-release reentry program components in the Pasco County detention facility, an undeserved county jail in Florida. A four-group randomized controlled trial (RCT) will be used to randomly assign 800 inmates to one of four conditions: (1) a pre-release program only, (2) post-release program only, (3) combined program (both pre- and post-release services), and (4) treatment as usual. Pre-release and post-release services can be evaluated, independently and in combination, in relation to multiple outcomes: pre-release outcomes (e.g., clinician-rated improvement in coping skills, institutional disciplinary reports), 1-year post-release intermediate outcomes (e.g., treatment engagement, housing stability, decrease in problematic behaviors, recidivism), and post-release recidivism across 36 months and cost-benefit analysis. Fidelity checks will be conducted regularly for pre-release and post-release services. The analytic plan includes an empirically based classification of inmates (latent class analysis) to identify medium-high risk individuals to include in the program, using risk data obtained from a validated assessment protocol. Mixed model repeated measures ANOVAs will be used to compare the pre-release and intermediate post-release outcomes (relative to baseline) across the 4 groups. An intent-to-treat analysis will be used to address drop out and non-compliance. Finally, logistic regression will be used to examine group differences on the 1-year and 36-month recidivism (e.g., rearrests, reconvictions), and a survival analysis (Cox proportional hazards model) to compare the 4 groups on time to recidivate, with time at-risk (length of recidivism period minus time spent incarcerated or in a facility) included as a covariate in analyses. Cost-benefit analyses will be conducted to examine monetary savings of expected reduced recidivism relative to the costs of implementation of pre- and post-release services. Note: This project contains a research and/or development component, as defined in applicable law, and complies with Part 200 Uniform Requirements - 2 CFR 200.210(a)(14). CA/NCF