The number of Scottish people who re-offended within two years of a conviction has reached its highest level in a decade, state the most recent figures. The Scottish Parliament recently passed proposals which will phase out jail sentences of three months or less in favour of tougher community sentences. According to the figures, 42.5% of those who were given community service orders re-offended within two years. Among those handed probation by the courts, 57.8% re-offended. However, 61.6% of people jailed committed further offences within two years.