Who is classified as a recidivist?

A recidivist is defined as an individual who relapses into criminal behavior after having previously been convicted of a crime. This definition aligns perfectly with the correct choice, as it highlights the ongoing pattern of criminal activity that characterizes a recidivist. Recidivism often speaks to the challenges of rehabilitation and societal reintegration, reflecting a cycle where the individual re-offends despite prior convictions.

The other options do not fit the definition of a recidivist. For instance, someone who has never been convicted of a crime cannot be categorized as a recidivist since there is no prior offense to return to. Likewise, a person convicted of a minor offense does not necessarily fit the broader context of recidivism unless they repeatedly commit offenses. Lastly, an individual who is successfully rehabilitated after their initial conviction does not embody the concept of recidivism, as they have presumably altered their behavior to avoid future criminal activity.