Available data have not clarified the proportion of sexual offenders who would meet diagnostic criteria for addictive problems. The literature does not contain studies comparing sexual offenders to nonsexual violent offenders on standardized measures of substance abuse. This study investigates the differences between sexual offenders (rapists: n = 72; child molesters: n = 34) and nonsexual violent offenders (n = 24) on measures of alcohol and drug abuse. Sexual offenders were more likely to abuse alcohol than were nonsexual violent offenders. Nonsexual offenders were significantly more likely to have had a history of other forms of substance abuse. The study considers findings in terms of theories of alcohol’s contribution to aggressive behavior and sexual aggression and discusses implications for assessment and treatment of sexual offenders. Treatment professionals who work with violent offenders should have training in the area of substance abuse. Treatment approaches must focus on coping strategies, particularly for areas of difficulty embedded in the offense chain or cycle. Tables, references