A substantial rise in adult detention admissions occurred over the past 3 years. The majority of inmates were white males between the ages of 18 and 29 years. Sixty-five percent of those known to be detained for a criminal offense were incarcerated for a nonviolent charge. Robbery represented 57 percent of all violent offenses. Eighteen percent were first offenders, and 57 percent had no prior record of violence. Time served in detention increased to an average of 4 months. Major factors influencing the length of time in detention included the type of offense, bail amounts, and the presence of detainers. In the 1,045 cases where a bail amount was set, only 21 percent eventually secured release by bail. Bail amounts increased with the severity of the offense. The percentage of bail releases was higher for less serious offenses. County jail overcrowding can be reduced through the increased and expeditious release of nonviolent inmates. This would free up valuable jail space for the more dangerous offenders. Methods for reducing jail overcrowding by reducing time served in detention are outlined. Tables and graphs are presented. (Author summary modified)