Residential Mobility and Drug Use Among Parolees in San Diego, California and Implications for Policy

Abstract

This research examines the spatial concentrations and mobility of released drug abusers and explores how those patterns may differ from those of the general releasee population. Using data on the drug use and residential histories of parolees in San Diego County, California, the findings reveal high rates of drug use (57% had known problems with drugs) and mobility (52% moved) across different types of parolees. Moves were also relatively far—on average, over four miles for the first move; parolees are likely changing their residences and their neighborhoods. However, parolees are living in areas that are far more disadvantaged than the average neighborhood in San Diego County, and when they move, they go to areas that are similar or worse-off. The research thus underscores the need for housing and other assistance for parolees that begins before release, and providers should work with parolees to ensure service continuity after a move. Understanding when, where, and how far parolees move is both essential to knowing where specific types of services should be located, and critical to maintaining accountability among parolees.