ABSTRACT
Introduction As discussed in previous chapters, substance abuse is considered a dynamic risk factor for
recidivism. This is not surprising when we consider the relationship between substance
abuse and crime. Although the number of drug offenders sent to prison is decreasing,
they still account for 17% of all state prisoners and almost half of federal inmates (Carson
& Sabol, 2012). Among those on probation in 2011, 25% had a drug offense as their most
serious charge, and nearly one-third of parolees had a drug offense as their most serious
charge (Maruschak & Parks, 2012). Beyond those sentenced for drug offenses, it is
important to recognize that many more may have been under the influence of alcohol or
other drugs at the time of their arrest, and others engaged in crime in an effort to fund
their illegal drug habit. A study conducted by the researchers at the Bureau of Justice
Statistics revealed that more than one-half of state inmates and 45% of federal inmates
met the criteria for drug dependence or abuse. However, less than half of those in need of
treatment received it (Mumola & Karberg, 2006). Although statistics regarding pro-
bationers are slightly more promising, it appears that more opportunities for treatment
are still needed (Mumola, 1998).
