Year: 1992 Source: Journal of Research in Crime and Delinquency, v.29, no.4, (November 1992), p.466-479 SIEC No: 19930401

Findings on possible influences on the numbers of inmate suicides & natural deaths in 204 U.S. jails are presented. Both inmate suicides & natural deaths decreased over time in larger facilities & in jails where medical tests of inmates on intake were added. Inmate suicides became less prevalent in jails where the ratio of staff to inmates increased. Natural deaths also decreased in jails where the degree of inmate crowding declined, & where infirmaries designed for overnight stays were added.