Recidivism Rate in New Mexico Hits 40%, Reversing Years of Progress

After years of decline, New Mexico’s prison recidivism rate has climbed to nearly 40%, according to a recent legislative report. This figure, significantly above the national average of 27%, underscores the challenges state lawmakers face in addressing violent crime rates.

“We want them to be out. We want them to be constructive members of society,” said Sen. Pete Campos (D-Las Vegas) during a Legislative Finance Committee meeting.

Substance Abuse Drives Recidivism

Substance abuse remains a leading factor in recidivism, despite state programs aimed at rehabilitation. The report found that individuals released after serving time for drug-related offenses are more likely to reoffend than those convicted of non-drug crimes.

Corrections Secretary Alisha Tafoya Lucero acknowledged the increase but noted the rate is still 10% lower than five years ago, when nearly half of released inmates returned to prison.

Outdated Data Systems Impede Progress

Efforts to analyze and address recidivism are hampered by outdated technology within the Corrections Department. Despite receiving $16 million to implement a centralized data system, the department continues to rely on two separate systems, limiting its ability to track program outcomes effectively.

Tafoya Lucero expressed hope that the new system would be fully operational by early 2024, allowing for more comprehensive data analysis.

Initiatives to Reduce Recidivism

New Mexico has introduced various programs to help inmates gain skills and reintegrate into society. These include job opportunities in furniture assembly, painting, landscaping, and wildfire fighting through the State Forestry program.

In Santa Fe, a recently opened store sells products made by incarcerated individuals, offering a creative outlet and sense of achievement.

Transitional housing has also become a focus, with funds redirected to address rising housing costs. However, legislative analysts pointed out that savings from reduced inmate populations and high correction officer vacancy rates have not consistently been reinvested into recidivism-reduction initiatives.

Combating Addiction and Behavioral Health Challenges

A shortage of behavioral health providers has hindered efforts to expand treatment for mental health and substance abuse issues. Approximately one-third of New Mexico’s 5,800 inmates are incarcerated for drug- or alcohol-related charges.

To address this, lawmakers passed legislation in 2023 requiring medication-assisted treatment (MAT) for eligible inmates by June 2026. MAT combines medication, counseling, and therapy to treat substance use disorders. A federal court settlement also mandates continued buprenorphine treatment for inmates with opioid use disorder.

Corrections officials have requested additional funding to meet these requirements, with legislative leaders voicing support.

“It’s one of the few ways to address this growing opioid use dependence,” said Rep. Nathan Small (D-Las Cruces), vice chairman of the Legislative Finance Committee.

Looking Forward

The recent rise in recidivism highlights the ongoing struggles of reintegration and the systemic challenges in addressing addiction and crime. State officials are optimistic that new programs, enhanced treatment options, and a modernized data system will create a more effective strategy to reduce reoffending and address the root causes of criminal behavior.

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