Decline in state recidivism rate

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTHI) - Indiana's department of correction said fewer inmates are returning to the system.

The Indiana Department of Correction announced a 5 percent decline in the overall recidivism rate for adult offenders in 2012.

36.1 percent of offenders return to custody.

"6,800 come back but well over 12,000 stayed out and that our goal at Wabash Valley from day one is to prepare our population for a successful return to society," Wabash Valley Correctional Facility Public Information Officer Rich Larsen said.

It's news that came as absolute no surprise to Kevin Henry.

Henry has been locked up for 31 years and helps mentor others.

"They're tired of the same routine, they're tired of going lock up, they're tired of getting conduct reports, some of them are tired of coming back to prison, so that's when we get them. Those are the ones that we can make a difference with the one that are tired," Henry said.

Henry along with officials at the Wabash Valley Correctional Facility said the reduction can be contributed to the Plus Program.

It stands for Purposeful Living Units Serve.

That's one of several programs aimed at keeping offenders from re-offending.

"Finding a job is crucial and we work hard to give them the skills needed to find that job but getting that acceptance on the street, re-earning the trust that they lost when they left is not an easy thing," Larsen said.

Inmates learn about substance abuse, anger management parenting and general education.

The facility also has a GED and vocational program and is making early steps for college programs.
     
"We can make that so it wasn't in vain by learning something by helping other people," Henry said.

Officials said the food service industry has been very receptive at hiring convicted felons who have reformed.