Citation

Menzies RP. Med. Sci. Law 2006; 46(1): 13-18.

Affiliation

University of Saskatchewan Knox Manse, Saskatoon, Canada. bogey@sasktel.net

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, British Academy of Forensic Sciences, Publisher SAGE Publishing)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

16454459

Abstract

This prospective study identifies the rate of recidivism in spousal homicide offenders after release from their sentences for homicide and explores factors associated with re-offending. A non-selective sample of 131 released spousal killers was studied, using the CPIC (Canadian Police Information Centre) to access post-release criminal convictions. The mean follow-up period was ten years, and ranged from eight months to 37 years. Fifty-one offenders (38.9%) re-offended. Violent crimes were committed by 27 (20.6%) offenders. Several factors were associated with recidivism but older age at release was the most significant. Violent recidivism in released spousal killers occurred at the rate of 21%. Ageing was a mitigating factor and should be considered in forensic assessments and given more weight in parole decisions involving any release.