The findings suggest that IDO start offending at an early age, that they frequently have a history of multiple offences, and that sex offending and arson are over-represented offence types. Those participants recruited from nonspecialist ID services had significantly higher IQs and were less likely to have had contact with community social and health support agencies. Despite the high rates of psychopathology, there was little evidence for efficacy of therapeutic interventions, which, where offered, appeared to be of a nonspecific nature. At second interview, approximately half of the sample had re-offended.

Offenders with ID often receive inadequate services as a result of poor identification through the criminal justice system and research into effective treatments is rudimentary. Further studies are necessary in order to improve treatment efficacy and service provision for a complex group of individuals.

No abstract