North Carolina's resident population increased by 29 percent between 1970 and 1990, from about 5.1 million to 6.6 million. The number of prisoners per 100,000 residents went from 192 in 1970 to 269 in 1989, a 40-percent increase. The number of violent felons entering prison increased from about 8 percent of total admissions in 1970 to about 13 percent in 1989. The number of misdemeanants dropped sharply between 1970 and 1978, increased somewhat between 1978 and 1982, and then remained nearly the same to 1989. The number of white prisoners per 100,000 white residents increased from 109 in 1970 to 137 in 1989, a 26-percent increase. The rate of nonwhite prisoners per 100,000 nonwhites increased twice as fast, by 51 percent. Arrests per 100 white residents increased by 23 percent, while arrests per 100 nonwhite residents increased by 68 percent. It was determined that North Carolina's response to crime has changed. Law enforcement agencies have been substantially augmented, leading to increased arrests and prison admissions. Sentencing and prosecution practices have become more stringent, making it more likely that arrested persons will go to prison. The State has also responded with a prison cap and a surge in prison construction. The prison population growth is analyzed in terms of three time periods between 1970 and 1990, and trends in arrests, crime, and police strength are assessed. The idea that imprisonment must be increased to deter crime is questioned. 48 notes and 8 figures