What term describes someone who frequently reoffends?

The term that describes someone who frequently reoffends is "recidivist." This term specifically refers to an individual who has previously been convicted of a crime and, despite undergoing rehabilitation efforts or having served their sentence, continues to engage in criminal behavior. Understanding recidivism is crucial in the judicial system as it impacts how laws are enforced, how offenders are rehabilitated, and how resources are allocated for crime prevention.

The other terms provided describe different concepts within the criminal justice system. A "first-time offender" refers to someone who is being prosecuted for their first criminal act, which contrasts with the notion of repeated offenses. A "probationer" is a person who is under supervision after conviction, often as part of a sentence that allows for community-based punishment rather than incarceration. Lastly, a "defendant" is a term used for an individual accused of a crime in a court of law, irrespective of their history of offending. Thus, a recidivist is uniquely characterized by the pattern of repeating offenses, setting it apart from the other terms.