Although prior record has consistently been shown to be a significant factor in the decision to incarcerate, little attention has been paid to the multidimensional nature of prior record and how the importance given to these dimensions by judges vary in relation to the current offense type and sentencing jurisdiction. This article first examines the multidimensional nature of prior record, revealing dimensions related to risk and stakes as measured by prior offense type, aggregate prior events, and prior disposition. The analysis then demonstrates how the effects of these dimensions and other variables are dependent on the current offense type and sentencing jurisdiction. Methodological, theoretical, and political implications are discussed.
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