The lack of attention devoted to crimes committed in prisons is striking, given the important implications of the problem for both prison management and public safety. Although research has not documented a clear link between institutional offending and recidivism after release, it is possible inmates who commit crimes in prisons may be more likely to continue their criminal activities once they return to the community. In 1995, New York's DOCS reported 8,304 unusual incidents in State prison facilities, including 1,738 reported cases of inmate-on-inmate assaults, 962 cases of inmate assaults on staff, and 3,550 incidents involving possession of prison contraband. Also in 1995, six homicides occurred in DOC facilities, a murder rate of 8.7 per 100,000 State prisoners. Data indicated few prison crimes were referred for prosecution or actually prosecuted. Special problems associated with prosecuting prison crimes are noted, as well as lessons learned from the prosecution of prison crimes in Texas. Recommendations for preventing prison crimes in New York State are offered. 6 references and 11 notes