Even though men in the general population were identified as more likely than women to break laws governing drug use and engage in other crimes, within offender populations the gender differences in drug use were not clear cut. This study was intended to provide a descriptive elaboration of gender differences among arrestees. The study explored arrestees’ backgrounds, drug-using behavior, and substance abuse treatment needs in order to illustrate gender differences among the population of the justice system. Data were collected in four urban and three rural county jails in Ohio for persons arrested between June 1999 and September 2001. Overall, interviews were completed with 296 female and 503 male arrestees. Results of the study suggest evidence of gender differences surrounding arrest and drug use, as well as other areas, such as in the area of social background which includes family responsibilities, demographics, and criminal history. In regards to drug use, study results indicated that male arrestees were more likely than female arrestees to exhibit marijuana dependence, both lifetime and current. Male arrestees were also more likely than female arrestees to exhibit lifetime or current alcohol dependence. However, female arrestees tended to be more likely than males to show cocaine dependence, both lifetime and current. Tables and references