Documental research examines 1) the content of official death records, 2) historical or comparative data on local jails and lockups, and 3) extant government statistics on inmate mortality and morbidity. Data was also obtained from criminal justice agency files and records of a community-based agency responsible for providing substance abuse and mental health treatment services for inmates. Certain sociolegal and demographic characteristics appear closely associated with in-custody deaths, but no single variable emerges as a reliable predictor of fatal occurrences. It is suggested that the high mortality rate occurring in local facilities could be reduced by improved inmate health care, proper training of custodial staff, and development of sensible operating policies. 6 tables, 43 references. (Author abstract modified)