In summary, 1,133 individuals were released to the street in 1978 -- approximately the same number as in 1977. Over half of the releases were originally sentenced in the superior courts of Suffolk (30 percent), Middlesex (14 percent), and Worcester (9 percent). Nearly half of the releases spent 10 days or less in jail while awaiting trial; 64 percent served an indeterminate minimum sentence. Furthermore, 56 percent had maximum sentences of 7 years or less; 1 percent were serving life sentences. The single offense for which individuals were most frequently sentenced was armed robbery (32 percent), and 57 percent were serving sentences for offenses against persons. The median age at incarceration was 23 years; 88 percent of releases were male; 65 percent were white (31 percent black); and the median level of education was tenth grade. At least one prior arrest was recorded for 92 percent, and 58 percent had 9 or more prior court appearances. In addition, 57 percent had served time in some type of correctional facility, and 49 percent had served some time as adults. Thirty percent had been paroled at least once prior to their current release, and 18 percent had previous parole violations. Data tables and a glossary of terms are included. (Author abstract modified)