The detention of juveniles in adult jails and lockups has long been a moral issue characterized by sporadic public concern and minimal action towards its resolution. Approximately 500,000 or more juveniles are held in jails each year. Rationales for keeping children in jails have included public safety, protection of children from themselves or their environment, and a lack of alternatives. A survey of 10 states found that most detained juveniles would not meet standard detention criteria of the Juvenile Justice National Advisory Committee. Children are hurt physically, sexually, and emotionally in jail. Exposing a child to the punitive conditions of a jail jeopardizes his well-being and handicaps future rehabilitation efforts. Virtually every national organization concerned with law enforcement and the judicial system has recommended standards prohibiting jailing of children. Although there has been an increase in the states' prohibitions against confinement of juveniles in adult jails, only four states absolutely prohibit it. Costs for placing juveniles in facilities other than jails are estimated to be 15% higher than costs for jailing children without separation. However, recidivism rates are higher for children placed in jails and thus entail higher future costs. Police departments should review their procedures to ensure juveniles are not subject to unwarranted detention and jailing. (ABL)