Popular media depictions suggest that veterans of recent conflicts are more prone to mental health conditions and violence, but empirical research on the issue is mixed at best. In fact, some research suggests that veterans are less likely than non-veterans to commit violent offenses. In an effort to address conflicting perspectives on violence among veterans, this research examines the issue of whether veterans are more likely to be arrested for violent or serious offenses than non-veterans. Data was drawn from 102,225 client records in Allegheny County Pretrial Services from the years 2010 to 2014. Variables examined included veteran status, age, sex, race, employment status at the time of arrest, education level, and prior use of drug and alcohol treatment or mental health services. Though the effect sizes were small, this study found offenders with veteran status were more likely to be arrested for violent offenses than non-veterans. No effect was found for seriousness of offense. Future steps, implications, and policies based on this preliminary study are discussed.
