Reoffending statistics show we are failing on crime

Tackling disadvantage and social exclusion is likely the most effective long-term strategy for addressing factors that lead to reoffending.

Innovative local community-based solutions are crucial in addressing inequality and disadvantage that are common causes of reoffending. File photo

In November, the Central Statistics Office released statistics on reoffending by detected incidents in 2024. 

Overall, 61% of detected crime incidents in 2024 involved suspects with a history of offending. In other words, 61% of detected crime in 2024 was committed by people who had already been in contact with the criminal justice system.