Perspectives on Terrorism is an initiative of the International Centre for Counter-Terrorism. Visit website
VOL. XIII, Issue 2

The Terrorism Recidivism Study (TRS): Examining Recidivism Rates for Post 9/11 Offenders

This study examines recidivism rates of offenders convicted of terrorism-related offenses post-9/11 in the United States (N=561). In total, nine offenders recidivated while incarcerated or upon release. Of the 247 who were released during the course of the study, four recidivated. This indicates a recidivism rate of approximately 1.6% among released political extremists. These findings suggest that restrictive policies designed to increase surveillance of released political extremists, such as the recently proposed TRACER Act and other registry-based measures, are unwarranted.

About ICCT

The International Centre for Counter-Terrorism (ICCT) is a think-and-do tank based in The Hague, Netherlands. We provide research, policy advice, training and other solutions to support better counter-terrorism policies and practices worldwide. We also contribute to the scientific and publi.…