Each case was followed for 5 years to determine the number returned to the custody of the Department of correctional Services. For purposes of comparison, similar release cohorts for 1972-85 were analyzed by rate of return for selected characteristics. A total of 49.8 percent of the inmates were returned to custody within 5 years, 23.4 as new commitments and 26.4 percent for parole violations. The rate of return was 33.3 percent for females and 50.5 percent for males. Offenses with higher than average rates of return included robbery, second- and third-degree burglary, stolen property, first-degree rape, grant larceny, and youthful offenders. Offenses with return rates below the average included all crimes of homicide, arson, all sex felonies except first-degree rape, kidnapping, assault, drug law offenses, forgery, first-degree burglary, and dangerous weapons violations. Figures, tables, and appended tables