Opinion ID: 3152697
Heading Depth: 4
Heading Rank: 1

Heading: Age of Offender

Text: Robinson was born on December 27, 1943, and was 58 years old at the time of trial. Cunningham identified studies showing a significant reduction in the risk of prison violence among offenders who are age 45 years or older, referring to this phenomenon as the aging effect. This aging effect is generally consistent with data among the general population that shows a decreasing tendency for violence with increased age. Cunningham noted that research confirms this aging effect still holds true and applies equally to offenders who commit violent crimes at an advanced age, such as in Robinson's case. Delo corroborated this testimony, confirming that as an inmate ages, the risk of violence decreases. He opined that an inmate's age is the most significant factor influencing propensity for violence.