Intensified support for juvenile offenders on probation: Evidence from Germany. Issue 2 (19th April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Engel, Christoph; Goerg, Sebastian J.; Traxler, Christian
• Is Part Of: Journal of empirical legal studies. Volume 19:Issue 2(2022)
• Page Start: 447
• Page End: 490
• Publication Date: 2022-04-19
• Subjects: probation -- randomized control trial -- regression discontinuity design -- recidivism -- youth crime; Law -- Periodicals; Law -- Research -- Periodicals; 340
• DOI: 10.1111/jels.12311
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1740-1453

Abstract

Abstract: This paper studies a probation program in Cologne, Germany. The program, which has a clear rehabilitative focus, offers intensified personal support to serious juvenile offenders over the first 6 months of their probation period. To evaluate the program's impact on recidivism, we draw on two research designs. Firstly, a small‐scale randomized trial assigns offenders to probation with regular or intensified support. Secondly, a regression discontinuity design exploits a cutoff that defines program eligibility. The results suggest that the program reduces recidivism. The effect seems persistent over at least 3 years. Our evidence further indicates that the drop in recidivism is strongest among less severe offenders.