NCJ Number
144202
Journal
Journal of Criminal Justice Volume: 21 Issue: 3 Dated: (1993) Pages: 277-283
Date Published
1993
Length
7 pages
Annotation
This study was conducted to determine the rate of suicide in Ohio jails and lockups and to examine the relationship between alcohol and the timing of suicide after detainment, based on demographic information and criminal arrest records for 228 cases of suicide occurring between 1975 and 1985.
Abstract
Information collected from death certificates included age, race, sex, and marital status, as well as the date, time, and location of death. A standardized survey form sent to local facilities collected additional data on the occupation, height, and weight of decedents; offense types; and date and time of the arrest, admission, and suicide attempt. The death certificate search revealed that 242 cases of suicide occurred in 84 jails and lockups; 80 facilities responded to the survey, and data were provided for 228 cases (94 percent). Of the 228 cases, 215 involved males, 13 involved females, 177 were white, and 50 were black. The mean age was 28 years, with a range of 17 to 59 years. The method of suicide for 223 inmates was hanging by materials available in the jail cell (articles of clothing, belts, and sheets). Three suicides were committed with poison, while two involved injuries from jumping. On average, 23 suicides occurred yearly, and suicides occurred more frequently during the warmer months of May through September. Over 40 percent of the cases had been arrested for alcohol-related crimes. These cases were significantly more likely to commit suicide within the first 24 hours of incarceration than other cases. Among cases of suicide within the first 24 hours after admission, intoxicated cases committed suicide significantly more quickly than other cases. The authors recommend that risk factors for inmate suicide be studied further using case control methods and that characteristics of suicide cases be compared to characteristics of other inmates. 29 references and 4 tables