Police Entrance Practice Exam

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What does 'recidivism' refer to?

The rate of first-time offenders
The tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend
Drug-related offenses
Community service completion rates

The correct answer is: The tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend

Recidivism specifically refers to the tendency of a convicted criminal to reoffend after having been previously punished or incarcerated for a crime. This term is commonly used in discussions about the effectiveness of rehabilitation programs and the overall criminal justice system. Understanding recidivism is important for law enforcement and policymakers as they work to create strategies that effectively reduce repeat offenses and support reintegration of offenders into society. In the context of the other options, the rate of first-time offenders pertains to individuals committing a crime for the first time, which is not related to recidivism. Drug-related offenses are specific types of crimes and do not encompass the broader concept of reoffending. Lastly, community service completion rates relate to the fulfillment of sentencing terms but do not specifically connect to the likelihood of reoffending, which is the core focus of recidivism.