The facts in 23 deaths occurring in military police custody or confinement over a 9-year period have been examined. It would appear that suicide is a threat under any circumstance, prisoners will be shot during escape, & accidents happen in custody. The overall incidence of death in custody & confinement is low &, when compared with the reported civilian experience, is about one-sixth as frequent in military cases. Death from natural disease was not found, & no cases were uncovered that could be attributed to police misconduct or neglect. (2 refs)