Gender, age, and ethnic differences in offending behavior among Hispanic/Latino criminal justice clients

Abstract

Hispanic/Latinos are disproportionately represented in the criminal justice system. Using convenience sampling, the present study examined the lifetime and recent offending behavior of Hispanic/Latinos involved in community corrections in Miami, Florida. Descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression analyses were conducted. Participants were mostly male (59.7%), less than 40 years old (84.1%), and almost half were of Cuban descent (48.5%). Women were less likely to manufacture or sell drugs than men (AOR = .42, p < .03), and more likely to report recent prostitution (AOR = 7.34, p < .001) and stealing from houses or shops (AOR = 2.68, p < .01). Central Americans were less likely to report alcohol and drug related offenses than Cubans. Findings suggest that criminality among Hispanic/Latinos may vary by gender and by sub-groups. Prevention programs should be tailored accordingly.