An exploratory analysis of factors associated with repeat homicide in Canada

Abstract

The current study presents the results of the first Canadian national study on the characteristics of repeat homicide offenders and the factors associated with homicide recidivism. The research involves an analysis of National Parole Board (NPB) files for all homicide offenders in Canada who committed more than one homicide ( n = 86) between 1975 and 2005 and a matched sample of homicide offenders who only committed one homicide (n = 84). Descriptive and bivariate analyses are used to examine and compare characteristics of single-time homicide offenders (SHOs) and repeat homicide offenders (RHOs). Logistic regression analysis reveals that RHOs lacked employment prior to their first homicide and became involved in alcohol and drug-influenced lifestyles. Furthermore, RHOs experience reductions in family and community support after release from custody for the first homicide. This reduction of support will likely reflect at-risk behavior and crime lifestyles associated with being unlawfully at large and alcohol and drug involvement.