The sample of 50 inmates with (IQ) scores below 80 was selected from among the first 845 commitments received at Elmira during 1977. Characteristics examined on the development of the profile included level of intelligence and education, reason for commitment, prior adult and juvenile criminal record, sentence length, and employment history. Of the 50 inmates, 43 had scores between 70 and 79. All of the sample cases reported the absence of any trade skills, and 96 percent reported unemployment or sporadic employment histories. A disproportionate percentage of the sample with IQ scores under 80 were black (70 percent) as compared to 53 percent of the total 1977 commitments in the 16 to 20 age range. A total of 72 percent of the sample had been committed for felonies while the remaining 28 percent were youthful offender commitments. While the survey found that facility staff had made efforts to involve these inmates in regular facility programming, the inmates' borderline IQ scores coupled with an almost total lack of employment skills or experience raise questions about the benefits these individuals can derive from regular programs. Specialized programs for inmates with developmental disabilities should be supported. Tables are included. (Author summary modified)