Reconviction following Referral to a Forensic Clinic: The Criminal Justice Outcome of Diversion

Abstract

The criminal records of alleged offenders diverted from the normal process of prosecution were examined on average 31 months after assessment at a forensic clinic. Twenty-five per cent of those assessed reoffended. The apparent effect of treatment became statistically non-significant when other variables were controlled. It is argued that the case against the effectiveness of treatment remains 'non-proven' and that psychological benefits may accrue even in the absence of an effect on reconviction rate.