Data were collected by means of observations of the detention facilities; reviews of documents; and interviews with one randomly selected police employee providing custodial care, the employee's direct supervisor, and two randomly selected detainees. The interviews focused on caretaking procedures. The police employee providing custodial care also completed a questionnaire on job satisfaction and contacts with superiors. Results revealed that none of the police agencies followed all the governmental laws and procedures relating to issues such as the provision of appropriate food, attorneys' free access to detainees, monitoring for physical condition, and visitors. Although most organizations fulfilled the bulk of the criteria for good performance as supported by public opinion, some agencies provided poor care to detained persons. Findings also indicated that the chances of good treatment were the highest in police organizations with a high degree of specialization and standardization. Tables and 37 references (Author abstract modified)