Patrick Unveils Initiative To Reduce Recidivism Rate In Mass.

Gov. Deval Patrick has unveiled what he's calling a landmark initiative aimed at reducing recidivism among high-risk young men.

    Patrick said Wednesday that the proposal will cut crime, save taxpayers money, and improve outcomes for hundreds of young men leaving the juvenile justice system or who are on probation.

    Under the plan, the state will team with a nonprofit service provider serving hundreds of young men across the state.

    The state has committed up to $27 million for the seven-year project. The U.S. Department of Labor has also awarded the state an $11.7 million grant.

    Payments are contingent on the success of the program.

    About 64 percent of young male ex-offenders in Massachusetts re-offend within five years, and only 35 percent find work within a year of being released.  (Associated Press)