Paths to Lethal Violence: Prior Incarceration,Reentry Challenges,and Labeling in the Lives of Incarcerated Homicide Offenders

Abstract

This study examines the lived experiences of individuals incarcerated for homicide through in-depth interviews with approximately 301 participants across correctional facilities in one U.S. state. Moving beyond incident-level explanations of lethal violence, the analysis focuses on two interrelated dimensions of participants’ narratives. First, among individuals with prior incarceration histories, the study explores how they describe challenges encountered during reentry following earlier imprisonment, including employment exclusion, housing instability, supervision, and stigma. Second, the study examines participants’ reflections on what they believe could have altered the course of their lives and their interactions with the criminal justice system. By centering the voices and perspectives of those convicted and incarcerated for homicide, the study situates homicide within longer life-course trajectories shaped by social disadvantage, institutional contact, and labeling processes. Participants’ reflections on what they could have done differently help clarify how they understand their own choices, responsibility, and key turning points in their lives. Together, these findings advance understanding of homicide offending beyond incident-based frameworks and highlight the significance of early reentry experiences and institutional responses in shaping pathways to serious violence.