The number of felons walking back through the state’s prison doors for another stay dropped to an alltime low since 2004, Gov. Rod Blagojevich said recently. Blagojevich said the repeat cycle of crimes by formers offenders was halted by statewide reforms that translated into an estimated $64 million in prison costs savings for taxpayers.

Convictions among parolees went from 4,567 in 2004 to 3,742 in 2007–an 18 percent reduction, according to the Illinois Department of Corrections. “The reality is that offenders who are sent to prison are most likely going to be back in our communities sooner or later. The vicious cycle of recidivism weakens communities, destroys families and puts a huge burden on the state’s finances,” the governor said.

Full Story: Chicago Defender

(Thanks Jennifer!)