There is increasing evidence of associations between mental illness, homelessness, and criminal activity and arrest. Preliminary data for this study describe characteristics of homeless mentally ill veterans in the Cook County, Illinois, jail as well as those veterans who followed up with services upon release. The article also discusses the usefulness of an urban jail as a site for outreach efforts targeting homeless mentally ill veterans. Data developed in this study suggest that certain patients, particularly those with psychotic disorders, may require a more intensive coordination effort. Such efforts might involve the probation system and informal relationships with jail staff who could notify Veterans Administration staff upon a veteran's discharge from jail. Assertive outreach efforts to released mentally ill detainees can reduce reincarceration rates. Note, table, references