Predictors and outcomes of victim restitution orders

In the current study we examined adult probation cases in which restitution was or could have been a condition of probation. In particular, we explored the factors related to the imposition of victim restitution, the factors related to the payment of victim restitution, and the effects of restitution on future arrests. We also examined the extent to which the effectiveness of restitution is conditioned by community integration. Finally, to determine whether the effects of restitution payment are unique, we compared the results of these analyses with results of similar analyses regarding the payment of fines. Results indicated that judges ordered restitution most often when damages were easy to quantify and that offenders were most likely to make payment when they were able to pay and when the victim was a business. Restitution payment was related negatively to rearrest; this effect was especially strong among married persons.