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Intensified support for juvenile offenders on probation: Evidence from Germany

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  • Christoph Engel
  • Sebastian J. Goerg
  • Christian Traxler

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Christoph Engel & Sebastian J. Goerg & Christian Traxler, 2022. "Intensified support for juvenile offenders on probation: Evidence from Germany," Journal of Empirical Legal Studies, John Wiley & Sons, vol. 19(2), pages 447-490, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:wly:empleg:v:19:y:2022:i:2:p:447-490
    DOI: 10.1111/jels.12311
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Libor Dušek & Christian Traxler, 2024. "Swiftness and Delay of Punishment," CESifo Working Paper Series 10906, CESifo.

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