Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

“Murderers” is a broad term, and “reoffend” can mean very different things, such as being rearrested for any crime, a new violent offense, or another homicide. Research indicates that individuals convicted of homicide have lower reoffending rates than many other criminals, especially regarding repeating the same type of crime (another murder). Yet, “lower” does not mean the risk is zero.

What The Data Show

A major federal study found that among released state prisoners whose most serious offense was homicide, approximately 57.4 % were rearrested for a new crime within ten years.

Importantly, the data also show that re-committing another murder is far less common, though precise percentages for that specific outcome are harder to find.

Factors That Affect Reoffending Risk

• Length of sentence and release timing – Those serving long terms may have fewer years in the community to reoffend after release.
• Age and maturity – Older individuals at release tend to have lower recidivism rates.
• Supervision and support – Strong reentry programs, stable housing, employment, and supervision reduce risk.
• Defining “reoffending” clearly – Whether we consider any crime vs. violent crime vs. the same crime matters a lot when interpreting rates.

What This Means For Homicide Cases

If you’re dealing with a homicide conviction or working in its aftermath, these findings offer both caution and perspective.

• Being convicted of homicide does not guarantee the person will commit another homicide, but the overall risk of a new crime remains significant.
• Planning for release should focus strongly on supportive measures: employment, stable living situation, mental-health care, and supervision.
• For victims, communities, and practitioners, it confirms the importance of long-term support and monitoring rather than assuming the risk ends with release.

Individuals whose most serious offense was homicide show a rearrest rate of about 57% within ten years for any new crime. The risk of specifically re-committing another murder is much smaller. Age, length of sentence, support systems, and time in the community all influence the likelihood of reoffending.