Parolees' Physical Closeness to Social Services: A Study of California Parolees

This study examines the proximity of service providers to recently released parolees in California over a 2-year period (2005-2006). The addresses of parolee residences and service providers are geocoded, and the number of various types of service providers within 2 miles (3.2 km) of a parolee are measured. "Potential demand" is measured as the number of parolees within 2 miles of a provider. Although racial and ethnic minority parolees have more service providers nearby, these providers appear to be particularly impacted based on potential demand. It is also found that the parolees arguably most in need of social services--those who have spent more time in correctional institutions, have been convicted of more serious or violent crimes in their careers, or are sex offenders--live near fewer social services, or the providers near them appear impacted. (Contains 4 tables, 2 figures and 6 notes.)