The 52 defendants ranged in age from 62 to 88 years and were examined at a forensic psychiatry clinic between 1974 and 1984. In most cases, referrals were made for assessment of the defendant's competence to stand trial. Most of the defendants were male and had been married at some time during their lives. Twenty-eight defendants had a grade school education or less, while 15 defendants had some high school education. Twenty-nine defendants had no prior history of psychiatric treatment. About 83 percent of the defendants were accused of violent crimes. Although the number of offenses committed by persons over 70 years of age was less than the number committed by persons between 62 and 69 years of age, the percentage of violent crimes was identical. Almost 75 percent of geriatric offenders accused of violent crimes admitted to using alcohol, whereas only 33 percent of those accused of nonviolent crimes said they used alcohol. This suggests that alcoholism treatment programs should be considered as an adjunct to whatever criminal justice system penalties may be imposed on violent geriatric offenders. The authors hope that the data will assist in planning for forensic and therapeutic services for geriatric persons in the criminal justice system. 4 references and 14 tables (Author abstract modified)