Of all the States, Florida has most dramatically increased the use of imprisonment; the State now has the highest rate of admissions to prison per capita in the nation. Because of a Federal court consent decree prohibiting prison crowding, Florida has increased the number of prison releases at an even greater rate. Despite a doubling of the prison population and a quadrupling of prison admissions, the crime rate in the State has increased steadily. Along with the rise in prison admissions for drug crimes, there has been an increase in the application of mandatory prison sentences since 1980. Florida's early release program has resulted in a number of potential and realized threats to the public safety. Among the cost-effective alternatives to Florida's prison situation would be increased placements in community based programs. This strategy would reduce the State's reliance upon early release, save money, initiate necessary levels of supervision, and increase public safety. 9 tables and 8 notes